Ryan Lythall

I planned to discuss a different topic this week, but life throws curveballs. When you’re a person with a disability, and you rely on Para Transpo, well, they don’t make it easy on you. It can become very frustrating and sometimes even risky. So, get comfortable if you can because I [...]

ABOVE: The Great Glebe Garage Sale is a fun community event that has attracted thousands since 1986. (PHOTO: (L) OLM files, (R) via Facebook) Ottawa was busy last weekend. The REDBLACKS had a preseason game on Friday night. Atlético Ottawa played on Saturday. The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend [...]

Last week, Sally Thomas and I had the opportunity to check out two proposed new Para Transpo buses. Sally Thomas has also been a long-time Para Transpo user and a strong advocate for wheelchair accessibility. On a personal note, Sally and I have been friends for almost thirty years, and we’ve [...]

ABOVE: Columnist Ryan Lythall says that nightlife in Ottawa “ends at midnight for people with disabilities.” (PHOTO: R. Lythall) On Tuesday, May 11, 2022, the city’s finance and corporate services committee agreed to create a “night commissioner,” also known as a “Night [...]

PHOTO: Contributor Ryan Lythall and his friend Sally at the triannual Arlington Art Market. (Photo: Ryan Lythall) As I write this article, it’s another beautiful day in the neighbourhood. I hope you’ve been enjoying the fantastic weather. It’s about time. With the warm weather, [...]

ABOVE: Ryan Lythall supported the federal workers' desire to work from home. He only wishes they would advocate for low-income and unhoused Canadians. (PHOTO: FRED RUHERFORD) Before I roll into this week's article, I want to update you regarding my suction catheter situation. Some of [...]

Since Christmas of last year, I've been to the ER three times, and only one of those times was because I was sick. My latest trip to the ER happened last week. I went because I was running dangerously low on a vital medical item: suction catheters. Here’s a quick rundown of what suction [...]

ABOVE: In the summer, Elgin Street comes alive with patios, but do they leave room for people using mobility devices? (Photo: OLM Staff) The past few days have been beautiful here in Ottawa. We’ve had plenty of sun and warm temperatures. In other words, perfect weather for me to get out and [...]

ABOVE: Ryan Lythall wants to know what procedures are in place to ensure the safety of people with disabilities during an emergency evacuation on the LRT or on the buses? (Photo of LRT via CTV News) At the time of the writing of this article, Hydro Ottawa is still cleaning up after the damage caused [...]

Last Thursday, I attended my first Ottawa Senators game in several years. I was excited to go, especially when I learned that Ryan Reynolds would also be there. I’ve been a fan of his for a long time and hoped to meet him. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but the Sens won, and I had [...]