Edmonton has lost a prominent figure with the passing of Brian McPherson, a well-known reality TV personality, athlete, and advocate for individuals with disabilities at the age of 47. McPherson gained recognition for his role in the CBC TV series “Push,” which chronicles the lives of a group of friends in Edmonton facing daily challenges in wheelchairs. Additionally, he achieved success as a former para-bobsledding World Cup champion and a top-ranked sledge hockey player.
Tragically, on November 12, McPherson chose Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) after enduring various health issues. Bean Gill, who became acquainted with McPherson in 2013 while seeking friendships within the wheelchair community, joined him as a co-star in “Push.” Gill praised McPherson’s unwavering dedication to advocating for disabled individuals in Edmonton, recalling his vibrant and adventurous spirit, earning him the nickname “Crazy Brian.”
Despite a life-altering spinal injury at 19, McPherson’s resilience shone through as he embraced challenges and excelled in sports like wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey, and adaptive bobsleigh. Judy McPherson, his mother, emphasized his compassionate nature and selflessness, highlighting his willingness to help others, even at personal cost.
In his final years, McPherson faced deteriorating health, prompting his decision to seek MAID in September 2024. Judy McPherson expressed gratitude for the peaceful passing of her son and hopes that his legacy of inspiration and compassion endures. A commemorative gathering in Edmonton honored McPherson’s impactful contributions to the disabled community, embodying his spirit of resilience and advocacy.