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I was born and raised in Vancouver, BC and am currently living in Kelowna, BC. Boxing and soccer are my biggest passions and I participated in both a lot as a boy. I grew up spending most of my time in the city and had not done a lot of camping either in the forest or on the beach. Anytime I spent some time camping or hiking I knew it was something I wanted to be doing more of in my life. I’ve known Brad before and after his injury and watching him adapt to his new life while trying to hold on to what was important to him before has been an amazing process for me.
The Standing Spirit Project to me means that with hard work and determination anything can be done. It gives life and energy back to someone who probably is drained and depleted of a necessity that every person needs in life. To stretch the spirit like you stand in the morning and shake the cob webs out. To reach for the sky and touch a cloud, or feel the sun shining on your face. To get into the wilderness where ever it may be and breath the fresh air and smell life. As able bodies we take for granted how accessible things are to us and most would not even bother to do something like this. I consider this to be a waste and every person whether able bodied or not should be taking advantage of what life and nature have to offer and now that the way is being paved through so many different avenues such as sponsorships and volunteers there hopefully will no longer be any excuses for people saying I can't do this. You will not meet a better person who is more willing to show people that things can be done than "Jake the Snake Plisken". His will, determination and drive will not be stopped, thus proving that these goals and dreams are attainable with the will to do so. It is like cleansing the mind, body and soul for anyone. This trip was an emotional escape. I let go of the bad and soaked up good new memories, finding an inner peace and harmony that every person needs for mind, body and soul. I came back with a new sense of life and a rejuvenated vitality. |
