In support of brain injury awareness, the 18th Annual Courage Canada Trail Ride took place on May 27. Heading out on a 10 mile journey from Minburn, they later met at the Innisfree Recreation Centre for a supper, live and silent auction, cowboy poetry and musical entertainment by Bryce West.
“With any injury, you get to decide on your own recovery time. I’ve climbed mountains and valleys, and they make you see how strong you are and what you are made of,” said brain injury survivor Curtis Anderson.
Injured bull riding at the 2002 Ponoka Stampede, he was in a coma for several days, spent one week short of a year in hospital, and has been regaining strength for the past 21 years. The most important message he said is to never give up. Speaking around western Canada, Anderson advocates for brain injury awareness and the use of helmets.
“I have never walked a mile in anyone else’s shoes, but I know what it means to never give up. It was eight years before I could use a left railing; stairs are often made with a rail on only one side. There is no such thing as can’t to any challenge you or I make in life. Be the type of person that never gives up when faced with adversity,” said Anderson.
This year’s ride featured two teams, seven wagon riders, and over 20 people on horseback; and approximately 100 people attended the banquet. Anderson was thankful to the community for the support and all those who went on the ride saying, “That’s what makes the ride happen is all the support from the surrounding area.”
Proceeds from the silent auction went to support the Edmonton Veteran’s Food Bank. The majority of the proceeds from the Courage Canada Trail Ride supported four Brain Injury Centres and the Canadian Pro Rodeo Sports Medicine Team. To donate you can call Curtis at 780-581-4802.