Londoner recognized with Order of Ontario for work helping those with complex disabilities

The longtime head of a London-based non-profit helping those with complex medical and developmental needs live in their own communities is one of 29 people appointed to the Order of Ontario for 2024.

Brian Dunne has served as president and CEO of PHSS Support Services since its founding more than 35 years ago. On Wednesday, the office of Edith Dumont, Ontario's lieutenant governor, announced that Dunne would receive the province's highest civilian honour, the only London-area honouree.

Speaking with CBC News on Thursday, Dunne said he was overwhelmed and humbled by the appointment, calling it a validation of the work done by PHSS.

"Really, it's not about me; it's about a journey we started in 1988 to develop something for a group of families looking for support and services for their sons and daughters who had medical and complex needs," Dunne said. 

"There were very few options in those days … We didn't have the technology that we have now, and we didn't have the knowledge, and I think that's been part of this learning organization over time."

PHSS provides round-the-clock residential supports, including home and personal care, transportation, and community and social activities, to patients with complex needs in 80 locations across Ontario, with a staff numbering more than 750, according to the organization.

It also provides specialized programs, day supports, and overnight respite services to those considered medically fragile or technology dependent, such as those on ventilators or continuous oxygen.

Jeanette Dutot, the executive director of Hutton House, another London-based organization which supports those with disabilities, said she was happy to see Dunne's work recognized.

"Brian and his organization are truly making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and providing them the opportunity to be fully involved in their community," Dutot told CBC News, noting many individuals helped by PHSS also access their services.

"It's a vital piece of the community. Not many organizations support people with the complex needs that many of the individuals have, but PHSS finds a way to support those people to live independently."

Looking back at his career, Dunne says the start of PHSS came with some skeptical voices.

"People said, 'you can't do this. People with those kinds of complex needs can't live in the community like you and I can live,'" he said. "We became the can-do organization because we said, 'why can't we do it?' With the right supports, we all can thrive, regardless."

According to The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Order of Ontario recognizes "exceptional individuals" who have had a lasting impact on the province and the world.

Dunne said none of it would have been possible without the help of local partners, hospitals, allied health professionals, and the primary care physicians and nurses who support the organization's services.

"I'm personally thankful for all the people that have travelled the journey with me. People in my own personal life, the board of directors here, the staff here, the families, the people we support," Dunne said.

"They all give you the energy and the ability to move forward and make hopefully life better for all of us in the community."

Dunne and the other appointees will be presented with the order's insignia during a ceremony expected later this year.