7 Questions with Marni Abbott-Peter
Marni Abbott-Peter is one of Canada's most distinguished Paralympic athletes. As an athlete, she won hardware at the Paralympic Games four times (1992, 1996, 2000, 2004) and the World Championships four times (1994, 1998, 2002, 2010). In her coaching career, she was named Coach of the Year by Wheelchair Basketball Canada in 2009.
She is also a familiar face in various halls of fame! In 2008, she was inducted into the Wheelchair Basketball Canada Hall of Fame; a few weeks ago, in late November of 2015, she was inducted into the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame.
It is our honour and privilege to feature Marni in our 7 Questions today and get to better know one of the most beloved coaches in the country.
1. Describe yourself in 5 words.
Busy, reliable, fun-loving, honest, happy.
2. What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about the Let's Play program which provides opportunities for children with disabilities to get active at a young age.
3. If you could change anything in the world, what would it be?
I would make everything everywhere wheelchair accessible – including people's attitudes!
4. What is your favourite quote?
"Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened!" –Dr. Seuss
5. Describe a challenge you have overcome and how you dealt with it.
[A challenge I faced] was acquiring a spinal cord injury at 18... I had a lot of help along the way in dealing with it but mainly my involvement in Paralympic sport helped me the most.
6. If you could remove one barrier what would it be?
Financial challenges to being involved in para-sport, mainly equipment costs.
7. What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for the amazing people I have in my life - my husband, family, friends, co-workers, neighbors
