Ersin Omay: Looking on the Bright Side of Life By Mary Dufton

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on print

Ersin Omay was not born with hydrocephalus but developed it after falling from a third-floor balcony at age three. The 49-year-old Mississauga resident loves the outdoors and is an avid photographer. Ersin’s passion for photography has taught him a lot about how to look at life and its challenges.
Originally from Freiburg, Germany, his family moved to Canada when he was about seven, seeking better medical care for him at the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children (Sick Kids). He had multiple shunt and spine surgeries, yet Ersin remains active when opportunities are present. Additionally, physiotherapy has helped Ersin maintain a level of functioning that has enhanced his quality of life.
Ersin has been living in a geared to income cooperative apartment for the past four years. He finds much comfort and support from his grey and black tabby cat, Fritz, who he got last summer.
“Fritz has been my companion, and we have a bond. He can tell if I am stressed and will sit beside and comfort me.”
Ersin’s father died from cancer in 2021 and his mother lives in long-term care in Germany. He traveled with his older brother last June to visit their mother in Germany. Recalls Ersin, “The trip would not have been possible if it weren’t for the barrier free travel in the airport and my brother’s help.”

Ersin uses a scooter for distance, a walker in his apartment and either drives or uses a taxi. He used to work full-time in retail and now works on a casual basis installing home theatres, where he developed his photography skills

His favourite subjects are the night sky, air shows and fireworks. He particularly enjoys seeing the stars away from city lights. Ersin’s other hobbies include video games, which also benefit his hand eye coordination and brain functioning.
Growing up, Ersin was shy about showing his scars at the water park or beach. He often felt like an outsider. He was always careful not to sustain injuries and focussed on certain sports.
“I found my calling with cycling during my last years of high school when I joined the Mississauga bicycle club.” Participating in junior amateur races and later senior three category races across Ontario gave Ersin a sense of pride, belonging and accomplishment. However, he was forced to stop competitive cycling after four years when he had surgery on his spine.
Ersin’s involvement with Hydrocephalus Canada began about twelve years ago. The online discussion groups have helped him identify with others and find answers to his questions about his shunts. He has also learned to self-advocate.
Through the organization, Ersin learned more about the neurosurgeons who helped him. He feels honoured to have been operated on by the great doctors who were pioneers of children’s shunt surgeries at the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children (Sick Kids).
“I remember those Fridays when Drs. Hoffman, Hendricks and Humphreys would have water fights with their patients.”
What advice would Ersin offer to someone living with spina bifida and or hydrocephalus?
“Join the community, learn what you can about your condition, learn to advocate for yourself, especially if you feel lost or are having challenges with your shunt. Not all doctors are familiar with shunts or know what would warrant an emergency room visit such as a headache or sensitivity to light.
“Live life to its fullest. Always look on the bright side of life. Laughter is the best medicine.”

Share this story
Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on print
Print

Related Stories

Your Devices, Your Rights Petition

Sign and share. Help, Support and Sign. Join us in calling on the Ontario Government to modernize the Assistive Devices Program and make basic and essential medical equipment accessible for

Read More »