Dearborn
Commission on
Disability Concerns
Disability Concerns
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Dearborn
Commission on Disability Concerns |
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Christian Mageli was the chair for the Dearborn Commission on Disability Concerns from its inception until early 2003. Christian also served as Vice Chair of the Michigan Commission on Disability Concerns for five years before recommending starting this commission. He, along with Cathy McAdam and Mayor Michael A. Guido started this Commission in 2000.
It was with much sadness that we learned of the death of Christian Mageli on December 13, 2007. As the co/founder, and first chair of this commission he was a tireless advocate for people with disabilities. He brought a broad perspective of issues and an intense belief that the ADA must be enforced and that equal access to programs and services in our communities must model the way. Our prayers and thoughts are with Nancy and his sons Michael and Bryan and we will strive to honor his legacy of commitment to equal access and inclusion for people with disabilities.
Christian was an advocate for victims of violent crimes. He had high level paraplegia since being shot while working at a hospital in Detroit, July 26,1993.
Christian was born at the University of Michigan Hospital, and raised primarily in Brighton and Howell, Michigan. He was married to Nancy. They met while Christian was playing drums in a Dearborn club.
Christian played the guitar and loved to fish with Bryan. Prior to his injury, Christian played the drums in Michigan bands for 31 years. His credentials included Psychiatric Technician, Orthopedic Technician, Surgical Technician and Ophthalmic Technician. He attended UCLA, Jules Stein Eye Institute for his ophthalmic training.
Christian believed we can achieve equal access by starting with small steps, in our homes and our community. By forming this commission it had been his hope and dream that others will follow in our steps and form more local commissions for the disabled. Equal access is equal opportunities!
