03/05/2026
Thank You Mike Bell!
Over the years, Options has had the opportunity to work with some very special and dedicated board members Today, we wanted to give a special mention to Mike Bell. For 18 years, Mike served on the Options’ Board; 12 of those years he was the Chair. He was very dedicated to Options and was always part of meetings, committees, and awareness events at Options and around the City. He was a true advocate for those living with a disability and volunteered tirelessly not just with Options but with Muscular Dystrophy Canada, until he passed away in 2020. Through Mike, we were able to get to know his lovely sister, Melanie Bell Hughes, and we asked Melanie to share a few words about him.
“Mike Bell served on the board of Options for 18 years. For most of his tenure he would serve as president. Anyone who knew Mike would not be surprised to learn that he was an integral part of Options as he had a very keen and genuine interest in volunteering within his community. Mike never let his disabilities slow him down or get in the way of accomplishment. He remained proactive and positive in his approach to everything he tackled. He was a people person who loved to tell a story or a joke as much as he welcomed hearing others tell theirs. Mike was an amazing inspiration to all who knew him. His lifelong contribution to the Atlantic chapter of Muscular Dystrophy Canada as well as his many other charitable offerings would certainly be a testament to this.”
