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Friendship is central to our lives. You are able to enjoy someone else’s company, be social, build confidence, explore possibilities, and well, just have fun! The has been fortunate enough to be a hub where are born. Many of our programs allow people to connect with each other by opening up doors for friendship. This is exactly what happened between Distance Computer Comfort participant, Leanne, and Distance Computer Comfort volunteer, Staci.

Leanne, from , , has been going through radiation for the past eleven years due to . She suffers through negative after effects daily, like constant tingling and numbness throughout her body, as well as the obligation of having to crack her back at least 25 times per day. Unfortunately Leanne’s disability prevents her from working, as well as having an active social life. Little did Leanne know that once she joined the ���ճԹ�51’s Distance Computer Comfort Program, she would be provided with the computer knowledge to give back to the community, as well as be introduced to her new and lasting friend, Staci.

Leanne is part of a group called CHEO () society for children who have/had cancer. An employee who works at CHEO recommended the ���ճԹ�51 to Leanne. Leanne wanted to learn how to use a computer so she could help children who are part of a group called “” (a group for children who are cancer survivors), who have gone through the same situation as she has and show them, “life goes on after going through all that.” “I’m learning so I can help people who can be isolate like me,” says Leanne.

Staci, from , , was born with frail bones resulting in a bad back, and will eventually need to use a wheelchair full time. She was looking for something to do without leaving her house and learned about the ���ճԹ�51. She thought, “what an opportunity to pay it forward.” “I like volunteering,” says Staci. “I taught my whole family how to use a computer.” “I want to share my knowledge because I know how frustrating it can be when you don’t know how to use something. Some people don’t even know how to turn a computer on.” Staci’s goal is to help people not to be afraid, “play with it, don’t be afraid of it,” says Staci.

Leanne and Staci both have disabilities that make participating in social activities a difficult task. Neither one had to leave the comfort of their own home to create a new and inspiring bond. “I can’t travel very far” says Leanne, “and I was able to meet someone from across the country.” Staci and Leanne met in February 2012 and unfortunately the spring session of the Distance Computer Comfort Program was coming to an end, but this won’t stop them from continuing their friendship. “I’m available to help Leanne anytime,” says Staci. “I don’t find people disposable. She’s stuck in my life.” “I appreciate that Staci is open to helping out” says Leanne. “It’s amazing that somebody wants to help.”

Staci plans to visit Leanne in Ottawa soon. “My couch has your name on it,” Leanne says encouragingly. Every Friday, while their class is in session, Leanne gets a drawing from Staci. Leanne also receives a now familiar hello from Staci’s son. This is just one example of how the ���ճԹ�51’s Distance Computer Comfort Program introduced two strangers who are now friends.