Guest post by Red Cross volunteer, Franca Elachi
Devon Marshall’s principle; “My disability works for me, I don’t work for it. I am the boss!” has helped him rise above his physical disability and made him an invaluable volunteer at the Red Cross Medicine Hat office.
He was born with Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus a deformity in the spine causing paralysis in his legs and fluid in his brain. Fortunately, with some complex but successful medical procedures, doctors have been able to manage his health. Devon now moves around in a powered wheel chair.
Despite these difficulties, Devon makes his disability work for him rather than slow him down.
In February 2014, Devon had a major brain surgery. One of his biggest concerns was the possibility that he would no longer be able to volunteer for the Red Cross. He fought his way back to work by pushing himself and rising up to his standard, always remembering his principle.
It has been 17 rewarding years with the Red Cross. Right now, Devon is lending his talents with the HELP department, which loans out medical equipment. He is loved by everyone. His buddy Mike Howkins, a HELP associate and co-ordinator of operation support at Red Cross Medicine Hat, says;
“I see him being a motivational speaker. He is an explosion of energy. Devon is a great encouragement for moral and staff and volunteers draw from his strength. You can never have a dull day with Devon . He is magnificent with the clients. Polite, positive, friendly and energetic; not holding back when it comes to his disability. He participates in every event and continues to evolve”.
Devon aspires to become more independent and work on his time management skills. He agrees that motivational speaking might be an area of interest he may pursue in the future.
He is motivated to give back because the world has given him so much and gets real satisfaction knowing he has played a part in making someone’s day a little easier.
In September 2015 he was awarded a Merit award at the volunteer appreciation event in recognition of his hard work.