Trina and Fran: A Bond Like No Other

Fran and Trina first met in 2017 through ABLE2’s Matching Program. Since then, they have developed a deeper and more meaningful friendship that is beyond a volunteer Ally and a Friend.

“I have never seen a match like this. Their friendship is obvious, it is not volunteering. It is nice to see a bond like this.”

Says Fran’s group home staff on Fran and Trina’s match. 

Both Fran and Trina have the same sense of fun and willingness to try new things. Trina says she has done a lot of activities that she would never have discovered without Fran, such as rocking to Roger Waters in concert, putting on their jerseys to cheer on the Ottawa Senators, eating lobster at Evening in the Maritimes, and seeing wonderful musical productions such as Annie and James and the Giant Peach.They are both spontaneous and always ready to claim the free tickets that are offered to Matches and they also get together for simple things like walks, food and movies. It is obvious that they enjoy each other’s company. In fact, Fran, who has limited verbal skills, is known to scream “Trina” when she spots her coming to see her.

The Match is not without challenges. Trina talks about using Para Transpo with Fran and how it is sometimes late and unreliable. However, the pair try to make the best of it by having something to eat during these times. They both love food! Another challenge is when Fran needs to be adjusted in her wheelchair. This is not an easy task, but they have a great workaround – they look for some handsome helpers! 

In May 2023, Fran and Trina were invited to talk about their experience as a Match at ABLE2’s signature fundraising event, Evening in the Maritimes. They were interviewed by then CTV News Anchor Graham Richardson and had a photo moment with former NHL player Jim Kyte, who was the chair of the event. Trina shares, “I wanted to do something meaningful and personal, and something fun. [ABLE2] was looking for people to be matched with somebody in the community with a disability for the sole purpose of friendship. Some people with disabilities may only have one person or may have no on in their life who’s not paid to be with them.” Check out their interview here. 

Trina truly feels she has met her goal to find a fun way to volunteer and Fran is so happy to have a friend.