In memory of Roger McCarville
by Beth
Easter Seals is mourning the death of Roger McCarville, who died of pneumonia on September 7. You might recognize Roger’s name — Matt McAlear published a post here about Roger McCarville’s A Wider World show on PBS earlier this month. Roger was the host of that show, and he was honored with an Easter Seals Distinguished Service Award in 2008.
Roger lost his legs in a boating accident in 1975, and he took that personal tragedy and turned it into a career as an advocate for people with disabilities. He was a delegate for Easter Seals Michigan and served on Easter Seals Michigan’s Board of Directors. He was also an active member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, the Paralympics Games and the Michigan Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame.
Our blogger Matt McAlear met McCarville after the TV host came to Easter Seals Bay Area to interview them about their Early Intervention Autism Project. The show aired in twelve different markets this summer. Easter Seals Bay Area has been receiving calls, emails, kudos, and support ever since the show aired on PBS, and subsequentlyon YouTube. From Matt’s blog post :
Throughout the day, both on and off camera, Roger went beyond the typical interview questions. He made a genuine effort to connect with each of us individually. Roger kept us laughing all day, and he was a pleasure to work with. He was truly interested in the work we do and the individuals we serve everyday through the Early Intervention Autism Project.
Roger McCarville was truly one-of-a-kind. He will be missed.