The world often presents a bleak picture. With international tensions rising, potential threats to democracy, and local concerns over environmental issues, it can be difficult to find reasons for optimism. However, even amidst these challenges, stories of resilience and hope can emerge.
This week, two such stories from Alberta offer a glimpse of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. They highlight the power of determination and the pursuit of joy in the face of significant obstacles.
hockey. Her journey began in Australia, where she was pursuing her hockey dreams. An accident led to the loss of her arm, initially leading her to believe her hockey career was over.
However, after an 11-year hiatus, Sharko returned to the ice. Today, she skates with remarkable skill, using her single arm to maneuver her stick. She plays multiple times a week, finding joy in the game again, a feeling that may have been lost during her competitive years. She now embraces the fun of the sport.
The second story focuses on Ryan Straschnitzki, a former Humboldt Bronco who was paralyzed in the tragic 2018 bus crash. Since the accident, Straschnitzki has made steady progress. This week, he used an exoskeleton that allowed him to walk along a track in Calgary.
The XoMotion system, created by Human in Motion Robotics, enables individuals with spinal cord injuries to stand and walk with robotic assistance. Straschnitzki controlled the device with a remote, allowing him to use a hockey stick and throw a football. The technology wasn't available when he was injured, but the goal has always been to help people with these injuries gain more independence.
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