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Vivian Garcia

Vivian Garcia is full of ideas, she is fiercely independent and she was born to advocate. Vivian broke her spine in 1988. Vivian’s vehicle for advocacy upgraded upon a chance encounter. She was wheeling on the road with her young son skipping along the nearby sidewalk when she met a city employee who stopped to ask her where her normal route was. He basically said, if the city knew her way, they would make curb cuts for her to travel safely. That unknown man, cut a path that showed her how to move forward. You just have to talk to the right person and have a conversation! In time, change will be done. Over the years, Vivian has been involved with helping those who wish to make change to move forward with input from her many ideas, plus their time, skills, research and the money that comes magically from investors and donors into the mix.

Over the past year, Vivian was involved in Technology for Living Seniors and with the Simon Cox Awards. She has hosted the SCI BC Surrey Bean There monthly coffee group since 2015. During Covid 19 Vivian sat as a member on the Corporation of the City of New Westminster’s Covid 19: Seniors and Peoples with Disabilities Task Force.

As a new member to the Board of Directors, Vivian brings her ideas, experience and sense of humour to the table. Outside of advocating, she is involved in research, she cooks, she gardens, she plays and she has a dog that fills her days.

 

Robin W.

Robin Whyte is a passionate individual hailing from the beautiful city of Victoria, BC. She is a true Vancouver Island specialist, deeply connected to the region. Notably, Robin achieved certification as a Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility professional, reflecting a commitment to enhancing accessibility for all. Despite facing the challenges of MS and using a small mobility scooter for getting around, her zest for life shines through a love of travel and a remarkable quality of life. Robin is dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. Amidst it all, Robin’s heart belongs to her cherished family and friends.

John Nguyen

John N.



Alex Y.

Krysten P.

I’ve been working as a Respiratory Therapist since 2009 with a focus on sleep medicine and community care. Working with the PROP team was a dream of mine since moving to BC in 2018 and I was honored and excited to join the team in 2021. My work with PROP has been some of the most rewarding work in my career as a respiratory therapist. I look forward to growing my skills with the team and meeting more of PROP’s inspirational members across this beautiful province as I do.

Michael B.

Michael (Mike) was born in Sapporo, Japan and moved to Canada at a young age. After graduating from Thompson Rivers University with a diploma in Respiratory Therapy he worked in acute care at the Royal Columbian Hospital for 7 years before joining the PROP Team. Mike has also worked in smaller community hospitals such as Lion’s Gate Hospital and Peach Arch Hospital giving him different experiences and perspective of optimizing Respiratory care. Mike and his lovely wife, Adonica, have a large Bernedoodle named Kiwee that keeps them active and constantly at the dog park. Mike has a passion for education and enjoys sharing his Respiratory knowledge with others; coupled with his critical care experiences makes Mike a valued Respiratory Therapist at PROP.

Monica Gartner

Monica Gärtner was born with a rare bone disease Osteogenesis Imperfecta where her bones break easily. She has had hundreds of fractures. Despite her challenges in the spring of 2023, Monica’s journey took a dramatic turn when she faced a life-threatening ordeal with both her lungs collapsing, she almost died. Due to her traumatic experience she received the Courage to Come Back Award in 2024 sponsored by Coast Mental Health. Monica was nominated for the Woman of Distinction award in 2025 for her creation of the Canadian Assisted Travel Society. She is an actor, freelance writer, speaker, and a published author of Overcoming the Impossible: A Life of Trials and Triumphs.

Linda McGowan

Alex Carey

Sahar S.

I’m originally from Iran and moved to Canada in late 2025. With a background in Chemical Engineering, I’ve always loved learning and exploring new ideas, and my studies helped shape the analytical and detail-oriented approach I now bring to my work in finance.
Teaching has been a big part of my life and has really shaped who I am. I still teach English today, which is one of the reasons TFL’s mission of supporting people resonates with me so much. I also really enjoy the warm and welcoming environment here.
Outside of work, I’m a nature lover and enjoy exploring beautiful British Columbia through hiking, swimming, yoga, and long walks. I also love meaningful conversations and discovering new perspectives.

Benson A.

I joined Technology for Living as an Assistive Technologist in 2020 where I worked out of George Pearson Centre and had the privilege to work closely with many of our members. It has been a life changing experience to see first-hand how the technologies we provide enhance the quality of life and independence for people with disabilities. Seeing our members overcome physical barriers is truly rewarding and I am honoured to support them on this journey. During my free time, I like to spend time with family and family, learn about new technologies, and scroll through social media.

Nicole W.

I have been working with Technology for Living on various projects for many years starting with acting as a peer partner and judge for the Simon Cox Student Design Competition. My role has since grown to encompass attending Pathways to Independence meetings, representing Technology for Living at events and writing many articles in the Balance newsletter.

I am an active participant in the disability community and sit on the board of directors for the Canadian Assisted Travel Society (CATS). By persevering through my own personal challenges, with the assistance of the IFRC Society and a strong support network, I have lived independently for the past 10 years. It has not been an easy journey and I welcome the opportunity to support and share advice with everyone who needs it (as well as receive tips myself!). I will bring this wealth of lived experience to my role of Peer Community Advisor to aid our members in achieving their own goals of independence.

In my personal time I enjoy spending time with animals of all shapes and sizes. I have many years of experiencing competing in equestrian dressage. My life has forever been enriched by the companionship of two certified service dogs from Pacific Assistance Dogs (PADS) who help me be my best self. As a registered status member of the Heiltsuk Nation, indigenous issues are central to me. My background helps me I bring a unique perspective to the role which gives me the passion to advocate for respectful, equal access for all, in every walk of life.

I am excited to be part of the Peer Support Team; I have many exciting ideas and look forward to meeting with you at events and in the community!

103–366 East Kent Ave. South
Vancouver BC, V5X 4N6

PROP: 1-866-326-1245
TIL: 604-326-0175

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