In 2011, Seattle resident Bob Hayman faced a life-altering challenge: a brain tumor that left him paralyzed on one side of his body. As an active person and athlete, this new reality could have stopped Bob from doing what he loved most — moving. But instead of giving up, Bob turned his limitations into an opportunity to help others.
That journey led to The Railings of Seattle, a unique self-published guidebook that highlights the city’s handrails and the best places to walk with their support. With photos, descriptions, and a quirky sense of humor, Bob’s book was created to inspire Seattle’s disability community to stay mobile and active, no matter their physical challenges.
Why The Railings of Seattle Was Written
Bob’s wife, Barb, recalls the book’s origins: “It started just spontaneously. We live in Madison Valley, near the south end of the Arboretum, so we began noticing railings in our neighborhood. From there, we branched out. We’d be driving and say, ‘Oh, there’s a railing!’ and go check it out. It became a way for us to stay engaged and find joy, even in difficult times.”
Bob’s personal experience with stroke-like conditions shaped the book’s purpose. The Haymans realized that a handrail could make all the difference for someone with mobility challenges. Knowing areas that are with adequate accessibility features could help them get outside, stay active, and explore their city. The book became a lifeline not just for Bob, but for countless others with mobility limitations.
What’s in the Book
The Railings of Seattle features photos of handrails around the city, complete with a rating system for accessibility. Barb notes that Bob’s sense of humor shines through. “At Bellevue Square, he wrote, ‘If you like to shop, you’ll like this place. I don’t.’ He rated it lower because he didn’t like malls, but he appreciated the indoor railings for bad weather.
The guide includes beloved Seattle spots like the Ballard Locks, Gas Works Park, and the Woodland Park Zoo. Each location offers not just a functional railing, but a setting that makes the journey worthwhile.
A Community Tool, Then and Now
Though Bob and Barb never formally marketed the book, they donated copies to libraries, physical therapy clinics, and individuals who might benefit from the information. Barb shared that they received overwhelmingly positive feedback about the book. “People loved it. Stroke patients found it useful, and they appreciated Bob’s humor. It made the idea of staying active seem more approachable.”
Even today, Barb sees the potential for the book to grow. “It could evolve into a website where people add new railings they’ve discovered. The original content may be outdated, but the heart of it — the encouragement to stay active — still resonates.”
Bob’s Message to the Community
Though Bob passed away in 2011, his resilience and determination left a lasting legacy. His message is one of perseverance: “Even if you are challenged because of physical inability, don’t let that stop you. Figure out a way to work around your disability and stay active.”
Through The Railings of Seattle, Bob found a way to stay engaged with the world and invited others to join him.
Continuing Bob’s Work
As part of honoring Bob’s legacy, the Department of Neighborhoods is exploring ways to make The Railings of Seattle accessible online for all to enjoy. Barb has generously offered to share the book, ensuring it continues to inspire and support those who need it most.
If you’d like to see The Railings of Seattle or share a story about how handrails have impacted your life, we’d love to hear from you. Together, let’s celebrate the creativity, determination, and heart that Bob poured into this remarkable project.
Do you have a favorite railing in Seattle? Let us know by emailing SeattleNeighborhoods@Seattle.gov or share your story!
