Anthony Frisina is a born and raised Hamiltonian. Diagnosed with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus at birth was just the start of the challenges Anthony would face growing up. However, his “aha” moment came when he was 8 years old, walking with crutches and/or a cane and using braces for support. He learned of Camp Marydale, which at the time was housed in Puslinch Ontario. A camp of this kind enabled kids with disabilities to be included in activities with other campers and have the support needed at the same time. This was the first time that he was outside of his circle of family and friends. Meeting John Spatazzo who simply said, “Hi my name is John, welcome to Camp Marydale” were the most powerful words heard. That moment confirmed that he belonged. He would become a two-time honourary camper with the Catholic Youth Organization and his confidence would soar to heights where he was “Anthony”, and his disability was secondary to the man he is today. A graduate of Regina Mundi elementary school, St. Thomas More High School and Mohawk College earning diplomas in Office Administration – Executive and Enterprise Business. In 2014 he would be named an Alumni of Distinction in the employee category – where he works today as a Customer Service Assistant. Additionally, he works at McMaster as well as a Standardized Patient. In 2015 he would start a hobby in chronicling his life story and without a title at the time, he would share stories of his life, in hopes to amplify the importance of the voices that need to be heard in the disability community where the percentage of persons with disabilities in Hamilton is greater than the provincial and national averages. He would then go on to learn of an opportunity to create his own TV – Above & Beyond – Bridging the Gap to Accessibility and Inclusion. After his pilot aired, he would receive praise from the disability community to bring this much-needed conversation to the forefront. This would go on for 3 years Cable 14 where his show continues to air. Continuing to write his book – he found the title, Above & Beyond – Anthony Frisina, published in February of 2021. He has added author, professional speaker, actor, coach, and consultant to his resume. A deeply rooted passion lies when he spends time at the Ron Joyce children’s Heath Centre what was meant to be a one-time appearance has turned into a constant Friday night event (pre-covid) cheerleading alongside kids with disabilities as part of the Ron Joyce Cheer Squad. He is also a Rick Hansen Foundation Ambassador, committee member of The Forward Movement, promoting the Dynamic Symbol of Access, Member of the Catholic Children’s Aid Society Board of Directors, and member of the Board of Directors for Path Employment Services as well. For his love and passion for access and inclusion in the great city of Hamilton, Ontario; earlier in 2021 he was named a Member of the Order of Hamilton.
