I saw that there were no tourist destinations in Mexico that really offered "the complete package" when it comes to accessibility and addressing the "care issues" that the handicapped face every day. These issues are a real barrier for them when it comes to deciding to travel to some unknown destination! I, that includes my wife, decided to do something about that! We purchased a property in Mexico with 2 1/2 acres and 300 feet of beach. We renovated the property so that it is 100% accessible! We did all of this before I had ever heard of the words "Inclusive Tourism!"
I really love "Freedom Shores!" This is the resort that my wife and I are developing here in Isla Aguada, Campeche, Mexico. I worked so hard and I put so many hours in my wheelchair that sometimes, I get a pressure sore and I have to lay down in bed for a week or two! I have to stay there until it heals up. Then I get back into my wheelchair and continue my work! I'm 68 years old and this is my dream! I want to build a place where the handicapped can come and not have a worry of the world!
Dr. Scott Rains in his "Rolling Rains Report," describes succinctly my dream!
It is my desire that all the professions come together and include "Inclusive Design" in everything they do! This will not only forecast good things for the disabled but it "unclogs the financial dam" that inaccessibility causes!
The fact that nearly 15 billions of dollars were spent by the handicapped community in the United States alone last year on travel, should catch the attention of the tourist industry! Once they realize that it is financially beneficial to them to make accessibility a priority in all of their endeavors, the handicapped community will be able to go out there and spend that money! Accessibility will become commonplace and my dream will become a reality!
November 3, 1961, I became a C5, C6 quadriplegic.
Active member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 38 years.
Active member of the Disabled American Veterans, 30 years.
Founding president, California Association of Physically Handicapped for San Bernardino and Riverside counties -- 1972-1974.
High school teacher in Corona California, 25 years.
Freedom Shores Resort; founder, financier, designer, builder and operator -- 2005-present. A resort specifically designed to be 100% accessible to slow walkers and wheelchairs.
