silvergoldmagazine.ca
Inspiring Our Community
COMMUNITY
look forward to getting up each morning to do
“ I what
I love –helping others. I’m very blessed.
”
Kristin Courtney is a lovely lady. Everyone who has crossed paths with her will
agree and only have positive words to say about her. She works hard at her business,
Access Abilities in Oakville, a business which she has owned alongside her favourite
supporter – her husband David of 35 years.
However for Kristin it’s not just about work, it’s about making a difference. She
has dedicated her passion to honouring the integrity and efforts of our Veterans by
hosting the “Veterans Appreciation Luncheon” in Oakville every November, where
she is joined by over 700 attendees, many whom are Veterans of WWII and the
Korea War.
Kristin knows many of her guests well. She knows them by name, where they
served, she knows their families and their stories. She gets teary eyed when she
speaks of them, and loves to share special moments of her conversations with them.
Kristin Courtney
“When Wilf sang the Anthem each year before he passed, I cried. You could feel
his pride, dignity and emotion when he sang,” says Kristin. “One day he told me that
whenever he put on his uniform, he felt he could do anything. That is just so special.”
Kristin’s father also fought in WWII, but rarely talked about his experiences. Their time together must have been a very
special one, as it obviously left a deep mark in Kristin’s life, and set the foundation for what would be her future journey.
After his passing at a too-young age, Kristin and her family applied for his Medals, which came delivered by courier one day.
There they were, the postal courier and Kristin, sharing touching stories and tears, just like family would’ve.
When a close friend was left physically challenged by a motor vehicle accident, Kristin and David saw first-hand how his
life was positively changed by the use of medical devices. The light bulb went on for them, and they decided to begin their
journey to helping others through the Access Abilities Oakville business. This year, their business turns 22 years young, and
is supported by family, a wonderful staff, and the community as a whole. Kristin and David along with their family and
staff are very thankful for the support of the community and are firmly committed to giving back.
“I’m eternally enriched by what I do. It’s true that it’s not ‘work’ when you enjoy what you do. And I look forward to
getting up each morning to do what I love – helping others. I’m very blessed.” And we are also blessed to have someone like
Kristin in our community. •
Kristin and husband David, enjoying one of their pastimes.
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Kristin with Toronto Police Military Veterans pose proudly in front
of the Portraits of Honour mural painted by Dave Sopha.