K.G's Full Story

Dear Friends,

Life as you know it can change in an instant!

On January 17, 2005 I was vacationing near Radium B.C. I was a passenger in a car that lost control on the ice and rolled. The accident damaged my spinal cord, leaving me paralyzed from the shoulders down and experiencing the world from a wheelchair. Prior to the accident, I was a happy go lucky young man, with a bright future before me. I was earning a good income working as a heavy equipment operator, enjoyed being part of a supportive family and I was engaged to be married. I spent most of 2005 in the hospital feeling like my world had crumbled around me. I experienced all of the medical complications associated with a spinal cord injury - anything that could go wrong, did go wrong for me! Each setback I experienced took its toll on myself and on those dearest to me. My fiancee broke up with me and my mother epxerienced a nervous breakdown from the stress.

In August, I finally became physically well enough to being my rehabilitation. It was then that I first met a representative from the Canadian Paraplegic Association (CPA). The CPA helped me redefine myself, focusing on the abilities that I had and not on those that had been lost. With the help of CPA, I learned new ways to accomplish the tasks that were important to me, to set goals and to work toward achieving those goals. I was able to find accessible housing and the support services I needed to allow me to move back to my community.

TODAY, my family includes many new friends and mentors that I have made through participation in CPA peer programs. I am practicing my public speaking skills as an Ambassador for CPA and the United Way. I am learning telephone interviewing and data management skills through regular volunteer work. These skills will help pave the way for future employment and greater involvement in my community.

The gray clouds that hung over my head for most of the first year after my injury have lifted and I look forward to many possibilities for a bright future - thanks to the programs and services that CPA offers!

The support they provide is invaluable to people like me and my family as we begin the journey of life after a spinal cord injury. Their work is only possible with the financial support of people like you. I ask you to ensure that CPA will be there to help others rebuild their lives and dreams, by making your donation today!

Sincerely,

K.G.

P.S - Remember, a spinal cord injury happens in a second - but lasts a lifetime!