Niagara Falls is a wonderful place to experience at any time of year, but one trip there was extra special for Tabitha – a member of the PHSS community.
Tabitha moved from long-term care to a PHSS location in February of 2023. During her initial person-centered planning sessions with her sister, it was identified that Tabitha hadn’t been on any trips in eight long years, and that day trips – or possibly overnight trips – would be amazing experiences for her. Tabitha agreed very quickly – and so the planning got underway. It just so happened that her roommate, Mikayla, also had a goal of going to Niagara Falls, so the pair decided to go together. Person-centered plans (PCPs) are developed with each person supported at PHSS, and serve as a roadmap for the supports provided. The individual (or their designate) leads in creating these plans to ensure they meet the person’s needs.
The ladies and team did extensive research and chose which activities they would like to attend. With the help of the PHSS Enriching Lives Fund, they were able to plan their trip for three days and nights in late summer of 2023. The Enriching Lives Fund provides financial assistance to assist people supported to participate in activities that align with their person-centered plan. Donations made to the Fund help to reduce the financial barrier for those we support to achieve their goals and dreams, and in turn, enjoy a more enriching life. For other inspiring stories of lives changed by the Fund, click here.
Tabitha and Mikayla enjoy views at Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls is rich with experiential opportunities. Tabitha was able to go right up to the Falls and feel the spray in the air. The group took in the tour of the tunnels under the Falls, the rapids, the current show and the butterfly conservatory. The opportunities for new experiences didn’t end there, as the group dined at the Rainforest Café and experienced ‘Niagara’s Fury’. Niagara’s Fury is a 4D motion theater ride where riders discover the ancient story of Niagara Falls in a multi-sensory simulation of the last Ice Age. The temperature drops, mist and snow falls, and riders are surrounded by stunning visuals along the mighty Niagara River. Tabitha took a ride on the Sky Wheel and saw the Falls from up high at sunset. With the assistance of staff, Tabitha saw Niagara from different angles, either on walkways or by taking tours on the city bus. Tabitha had an absolute blast and enjoyed every minute of it.
The sun was out, as the group saw the Niagara Falls from different angles during the tour.
Anyone wanting more information on opportunities to support the goals of amazing people, like Tabitha, can find more information on the Enriching Lives Fund and other PHSS and PHSS Foundation funds by visiting the PHSS website. For more PHSS community stories, visit our newsroom.
