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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, February 13, 2015 | 4 Russell and Sue -- a love story by Donna Messer Special to the Beaver I have been working with Community Living Oakville (CLO) and Janet Barton, from Development Services Ontario (DSO) over the past few months and have found the more I learn, the more I want to know about the organizations and the people they support. When Janet told me the story of Russell and Sue McLaughlin, I had to share it. With Valentine's Day quickly approaching, I thought it appropriate to read "a true love story." Janet's first introduction to Russell and Sue was on a warm, sunny fall day. According to Janet, "The air had the smell of the change in seasons and the leaves were bright yellow, red and orange." The apartment building where they lived was set back from the road and was home to seniors in the community. Sue opened the door and greeted Janet with a smile and a hug. Russell was equally welcoming, extending his hand and offering Janet a seat. Russell and Sue live in a one-bedroom apartment, it's "their piece of Heaven on Earth." They are proud of their home and are quick to point out their many treasures. T h e photograph of Sue in her uniform when she worked at Taco Bell, the crafts they have made, their "friends" sign on the wall, and the photo of them on their wedding day, all reflect the love they have for each other and for their friends. Russell and Sue have been married for 19 years. There have been challenges, but this incredible couple has survived and thrived. Russell lived in an institution for 16 years before moving to Orangeville, first living in a group home and then in Supported Independent Living (SIL). Sue grew up in Toronto, supported by her family and friends. When she moved to Orangeville and Russell and Sue McLaughlin began receiving SIL support, she and | submitted photo Russell met. "It was love at first sight," they say. Together, they shared many common interests; they attend church, enjoy community dances and bowling. They were married in 1995. Sue's family welcomed Russell and love surrounded the happy couple. When they decided to move to Oakville, they needed plenty of family support. Sometimes life was difficult, but with the attitude that this couple has, nothing has stopped the pair from living life to the fullest and staying together. They are currently registered with DSO and are waiting for SIL support. The contacts they've made with Community Living Oakville have increased their network of friends. The past year has been a difficult journey for this couple. Russell was diagnosed with cancer and has undergone treatments that have affected his independence, but not his outlook on life. "We all go through things like this and I just have to keep positive," said Russell. see Couple's on p.7 Did you know... DIAMOND We are an independently owned & operated Hearing Health Care Clinic 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS M a D e to FRESH & MaDe DELICIOUS NaChoS We are so confident that you will LOVE it here that we are offering you a FreSh orDer BURRITOS 289-837-0111 thehabanero.ca Why is this important? You can trust that we will provide you with unbiased and personalized recommendations as we are neither owned by, or affiliated with, any particular Hearing Aid Manufacter www.haltonhearing.com Call to book your appointment 905.849.7560 B4-1148 Winston Churchill Blvd. Oakville, ON L6J 0A3 @haltonhearing Halton Hearing Centre Located Across the Street from Sheridan College on Trafalgar Rd. 1289 Marlborough Court, oakville The Body Shaping Fitness Studio For Women Ready to buy a New Car? Visit www.carcostcanada.com first. Canada's #1 resourCe for wholesale priCe reports. We'll show you all advertised & non-advertised factory incentives & discounts. no obligation, all classes included. 1 WEEK FREE MEMBERSHIP Ideal ProteIn ClInIC Ideal Protein... a Quick, Healthy & Fun weight loss program for Men and Women! no exercise required! largest product seletion in oakville! Denis from Oakville saved over $3,500 with his CarCostCanada report. 183 Lakeshore Road W., Oakville | 905.849.1919 | www.bodyshapingstudio.com Call us at 289-813-3200