As one of Calgary’s leading personal injury and medical malpractice law firms, the team here at Cuming & Gillespie LLP sees many of Calgary’s individuals and families at some of their lowest moments. While we take pride in being able to assist our clients through some of their darkest and most stressful moments, we also like to find more uplifting stories when we can—stories that exemplify the Calgary spirit, and that show even the most devastating injuries don’t mean a life without value, purpose, and opportunity.

That’s why we were pleased to read about one Calgary teenager who suffered a spinal injury not six months ago, and who has been working to raise money to further research and provide assistance to others suffering from injuries like his own.

The Importance of Spinal and Brain Injury Research in Calgary

Calgary’s medical community is truly world class, and there is cutting-edge research being conducted right here in our city that is already helping those suffering from spinal injuries and traumatic brain injuries. The Foothills Hospital Brain Injury Patient Experience Program at Calgary Foothills Hospital has helped the medical community and patients themselves better understand their injuries—from a medical perspective, and when it comes to coping with these injuries and their effects in family life and in the community at large.

Cuming & Gillespie LLP is proud to be a donor and found partner in the Brain Injury Patient Experience Program, and we also recognize the important role other organizations play in advancing the causes of spinal and brain injury victims. Alex, who was himself paralyzed by a spinal injury after hitting his head in a tobogganing accident, recently took part in the Scotiabank Calgary marathon to raise money for Spinal Cord Injury Alberta, or SCI Alberta. Alex rode a hand-powered cycle during the event, showing off his tenacity and his positive thinking as he raised money for other spinal injury victims.

“I wanted to participate in the Scotiabank Marathon to raise awareness for people with spinal cord injuries and prove to myself I can do it,” Alex said prior to the marathon. He excelled at both football and rugby prior to his accident, which occurred this past December when he was only 15 years old. He’s determined to remain active in sports, and this marathon is only the beginning of what is sure to be a succession of triumphs for this Calgary teen.

We applaud him, his family, and SCI Alberta, and everyone who takes action to help Calgary’s spinal and injury victims.

Questions About Your Spinal or Traumatic Brain Injury?

If you or a family member has recently suffered a spinal cord or traumatic brain injury, we know how frightening and uncertain this time can be. For a free initial consultation with one of Calgary’s leading personal injury lawyers, please contact our office today.