"A School For Children With Special Needs"
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The Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled (BAPD) came about at the request of young people with spinal cord injuries who were tired of lying at home, rarely visited by friends once discharged from hospital. They wanted their mobility back.
In May of 1977 an initial meeting was held with the late Dr. Granville Bain, Orthopedic Consultant at The Princess Margaret Hospital, the late Dave Smalley, Kiwanian, and a wheelchair user, Phyllis Aldridge, the then Director of The Bahamas Red Cross, John Sands, Brian Rolle, and other wheelchair users. They were initially called The Bahamas Paraplegic Association.
This then became the Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled which was registered as a non-profit charitable organization in 1973. It's driving force was Phyllis Aldridge who saw the need the for physically challenged children and adults in The Bahamas.
Sir Durward Knowles was appointed president in 1991 and remained so until his passing in 2018. Under his leadership, an extension was added to the existing facility to meet the growing needs of the association. Assistance with staffing was provided by the Ministry of Social Services and Special education teachers and aides were provided by The Ministry of Education. The Rotary Club of East Nassau has been a consistent benefactor to this day. A Physical Therapist was employed also.
Following Sir Durward's passing in 2018, Ms. Charlotte Albury, Vice President was unanimously voted in as the new president.
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