What do the holidays mean to you? For Robin, it’s all about family. This hit home for the father of three when a spinal cord injury changed his life forever.
Two years ago, Robin was on a mountain bike in Powell River when he suddenly went over the handlebars. In that instant he was paralyzed.
“There is so much change in the beginning that you are literally just trying to survive. Your whole family is impacted. Kate and I have young kids and we have always been very active. We were scared of what our future would look like.”
A spinal cord injury is devastating. But you can make a difference. Your financial support helps people during the most difficult time in their life.
During his rehab stay, Robin learned of our programs and met others facing similar challenges. “I can’t tell you how critical it is to connect with someone who understands what you’ve been through. To see a glimpse of what your future can hold and the opportunities that are out there.”
This is the power of peer support! It’s a chance to swap stories, laugh, sometimes cry, and learn about life with a spinal cord injury. And it’s your donation that makes all this possible. Back home in Victoria, Robin stays in touch with our local Peer Coordinator. At our “Nordic Ski” adventure last winter, Kate and the kids were right there beside him. He is so pleased that we welcome family members at all our peer events.
“To find out that I can still ski alongside them is huge. It brings joy to our lives. And it’s all the other wonderful opportunities you have for people to get outside and actively participate with their loved ones. That’s the biggest motivation for me.”
Robin is immersed in the craziness that comes with having three young ones, but he knows he can count on our peer connections. And the whole crew is excited about the holidays. They usually have a big family gathering in Powell River. This year could be quieter though. Robin has surgery coming up and they may have to stay closer to home. But what matters is that Robin, Kate and the kids will be together. He will never forget what it’s like to wake up in the hospital and hear the news that your whole world is turned upside down. Like Robin, I’m sure you don’t want anyone to face a spinal cord injury alone.
Please send your holiday donation to Spinal Cord Injury BC today. It will have a lasting impact all year long. Remember that only funds received by December 31st are eligible for a 2023 tax receipt. Thank you for helping people thrive in their new lives.
With thanks,
Ed Milligan
Chair, SCI BC Board of Directors
