The Advocate
Alex Lytwyn is a passionate advocate who lends his voice to making disability issues heard.
Blog graphic reads: The Advocate. Alex Lytwyn: writer, news contributor, advocate. A photo of Alex and service dog, Fanta outdoors.
Using his personal experience to challenge systemic barriers, he writes articles for various news outlets, meets political leaders, and is actively involved in inclusion and awareness campaigns. A regular contributor to CBC since 2014, Alex shares his experiences and educates the public with articles like a guide on “how to converse with the disabled.” Alex recently took part in a self-isolation video project with the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba, and shared his thoughts on lockdown on Yoocan, a global collaborative community for and by people with disabilities.
First connected with Manitoba Possible at age 10, Alex has received support with a variety of equipment, as well as support and resources to assist him in his studies for the Applied Counselling Program at Assiniboine Community College in Dauphin, MB. Approaching the completion of the program, he is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to put his new skills into practice! Kim Parks, Vocational Rehabilitation Counsellor at the Parkland Regional Office, says, “Alex’s incredible work ethic and strong networking abilities will lead him to a successful career in the social services industry.”
“I have Cerebral Palsy. It effects every aspect of life. The biggest barrier that I face is only receiving 10.5 hours of care. The other nearly 14 hours a day, I’m alone,” Alex shares. Pushing for change, he is increasing awareness of the lack of support for people with disabilities as part of the Locked Out of Life Campaign, which fosters public awareness and advocates for young adults with significant physical disabilities in Manitoba, so they can continue to access services to meet their needs to live safely and sustainably in their homes, schools, and communities.
Smiling Alex and attentive Fanta look at the camera.
Though he faces many barriers, Alex says, “My life is his superpower,” and he constantly pushes himself to get the most out of it every single day. Alex has help overcoming those barriers with a service dog by his side. Alex and a black lab retriever, named Fanta, trained together in Oakville, Ontario for three weeks. Fanta assists Alex with things like picking up objects, taking off his coat, opening doors and barking for help - she knows over 17 different commands. “Fanta has improved my life so much. It's been over a year since she’s been with me. She gives me the ability to be more able. There are also many more wonderful things she helps with, like checking on me 24/7.”
Not only is Alex a vocal advocate who has built a following through social media, he's a force in society that exudes positivity and a can-do attitude. A strong community member, Alex resides on many committees and boards in his hometown of Winnipegosis and has been instrumental in raising nearly $40,000 for his local community organizations over the years.
A skilled writer, Alex is writing two books and has written several short stories. It's easy to say that with his grateful heart and incredible drive, Alex has been an incredible voice for Manitobans with disabilities. When asked what Manitoba should do to be more inclusive and accessible, Alex said: “Manitoba and its citizens have to give people with disability a voice and put in the effort to hear their needs.”