A Newfoundland woman who has proven all the nay-sayers wrong, is spreading a positive message about life and the support of family and community.

Maureen “Tiny” McKinnon was born with an intellectual disability. Her family was told she would have to be put in an institution and would not likely live beyond five years of age.

That was 78 years ago, and Tiny McKinnon continues to thrive and share her story with others.

Tiny and her sister Sheila McKinnon-Drover spoke at a recent L’Arche Avalon event highlighting the “Power of Our Stories.” Mckinnon-Drover says it’s all about accepting people for who they are and celebrating their abilities, rather than their disabilities.

L’Arche was founded in France in 1964 by Canadian, Jean Vanier who was disturbed by the isolation and depression he saw in people with intellectual disabilities.

The sisters are originally from Corner Brook and recently attended a Come Home Celebration.

A number of people approached them and said that seeing Tiny again made their trip.

There are currently 149 L’Arche communities, and 14 projects in 37 countries around the world.