My name is David Wilson and I am now 54 years old. I am of the class of ‘49. I was two years old when I contracted polio. I spent a total of 18 months at Sick Kids and Thistletown combined. During my childhood I had numerous operations on both of my legs.

Crutches and a leg brace, my constant companions and my way of mobility, set me aside and made me appear different to all other children at school and in the neighbourhood. Because my early years were difficult not only for me but also for my other family members, I would rather not go into detail regarding that period of my life.

In 1998 I fell, fracturing my left patella. Surgery was required to repair the damage. During this same period of time I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Further examinations that year at West Park Hospital in Toronto determined that I had PPS and was also suffering the late effects of poliomyelitis.

I am no longer able to work because of the severe limitation of my ability to walk, severe low back and hip joint pain, the constant fatigue and the high risk of fractures. I now use two canes for short distances and a walker for longer distances.

My once relatively normal and productive adult life has now and forever been altered. I feel like that dark shadow, the Grim Reaper of Polio, is staring me in the face saying, "You thought I was gone but I never really left."

--David Wilson