Her differently abled body has inspired Jeannette Hughes in many aspects of her lifetime of volunteer work.
“I’ve been volunteering since I was born,” Hughes said, gesturing to a family photo. She’s pictured with her nine siblings and her parents. “Being part of a big family, everybody learns to help everybody else get things done.”
What shifted her focus, perhaps, was a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, which found her creating an MS support group on the Saanich Peninsula. That group turns 35 this year.
“I started it when I was diagnosed with MS,” she said. “I had five children under 10 years old.”
Originally looking to others in similar situations for support, Hughes has found herself promoting access since then.
The streetscape of Sidney has changed dramatically since her move there 20 years ago (she lived in Colwood a few years and North Saanich for a decade before that).
“When I came [to Sidney] there wasn’t one decent curb cut,” she said. “Now it’s opened up to more people and possibilities.”
Hughes earned the 2012 Hearts of the Community Award for lifetime service.
She’s volunteered her time with a wide selection of groups including the Saanich Peninsula Health Association, Sidney Classical Orchestra and the Sidney Rick Hansen Wheels in Motion event. On the executive of the the Association of Peninsula Christian Churches she helped organize the Good Friday event for a decade.
“Part of it is helpful for me, because I have knowledge to share,” she said. “It’s also a benefit to the community because there are things happening to make it better.”
As well, Hughes has been involved with the Sidney Sister Cities Association since its re-establishment seven years ago.
“Jeanette has been involved with the SSCA organization for many years and we are always grateful for her caring volunteer assistance,” said Donald Barron, past president of the sister cities and one of her nominators. “We have often been in awe of her ability to help wherever and whenever needed, despite her handicap.”
Bound by her own scooter for two decades, she’s been focused on scooter safety for a dozen years, producing a television ad and a safety brochure.
“I usually have about a half dozen projects going simultaneously,” she said.
Hughes seeks to inspire, leading by example. “If I can do all the things I’ve done, and I’m disabled, then imagine what they can do.”
Hughes is also behind a longstanding Christmas Day luncheon for people who would otherwise be alone. The free lunch has filled two sittings at the Mary Winspear Centre for the past 12 Christmases.
“I’m glad I’ve taken advantage of the opportunities to help the community deal with these issues,” Hughes said.
“That’s what makes Sidney a great place to be.