Local Journalism Initiative
Radha Agarwal, Local Journalism Initiative, The Northern View
In a heartwarming show of community spirit, the Rotary Club of Prince Rupert gifted its retired president, now living at Acropolis Manor, a customized specialty wheelchair seating system, brightening his days by improving his comfort.
Doug Moore, 75, is a celebrated figure in the community recognized for his passion as an art collector and his enthusiasm for concerts and performances. He made a significant impact by leading the Rotary in 1998, demonstrating his commitment to community service, just as his father Ted did when he led in 1970.
Moore’s occupational therapist (OT), Jayme Peel has noticed the new, improved chair is significantly improving his quality of life.
“He has more complex seating needs. So this system allowed us to measure and tailor it exactly for him,” said Peel.
The chair features a tilt function, which lets it tilt extensively on its axis, enabling repositioning for better comfort. It was customized to his specifications, ensuring the correct width and depth to enhance his ability to operate effectively.
“And the backrest has lateral support of a headrest that meets his head so that he can be in proper alignment with his posture,” she added.
“And some people do have funding options for that type of equipment, but for a lot of people, they fall through the gaps. And that’s where it was really nice that the Rotary Club stepped up just so they could help fill that gap for Doug.”
Jayme Peel, Moore’s occupational therapist (OT)
This design better supports his activities, such as resting, watching TV, and improving overall comfort and skin health.
Such seating systems are priced at approximately $5,000.
“And some people do have funding options for that type of equipment, but for a lot of people, they fall through the gaps. And that’s where it was really nice that the Rotary Club stepped up just so they could help fill that gap for Doug,” Peel said.
In his younger days, Doug worked as a customs broker at the port, ensuring that ships and cruises did not bring any illegal items into Rupert. Occasionally, he also set up a storefront at the cruise ship terminal, selling merchandise such as hats and stockings.
Moore’s friend of almost 60 years, also named Doug (Kydd), joined him to catch up and reminisce about old times.
Kydd mentioned that Moore was highly involved with the rotary auction, with both radio and TV, and also dealt with finance. He served as the information officer and communicated with people about the auction.
“Doug was one of the very few Rotarians that I can remember that would come into the Rotary meeting — it didn’t matter what time of year it was and he’d come in wearing shorts and high socks.”
Kydd, Moore’s friend of almost 60 years
A key supporter of the Lester Centre, Moore would inform the club each week about the exciting performances scheduled and update them on the latest in the performing arts world.
“I was involved in so many different things,” said Moore, joining in.
Kydd laughs, saying, “Doug was one of the very few Rotarians that I can remember that would come into the Rotary meeting — it didn’t matter what time of year it was and he’d come in wearing shorts and high socks.”
“He made quite the fashion statement,” Kydd added.
Approximately 60 elders reside at the manor, with about 70 per cent using wheelchairs. Additionally, around 10 to 15 residents use specialized wheelchairs, like Moore’s, to function adequately.
