Introduction to Kylan's story
It is my privilege to have known Kylan Hunter for about eight years. I first met him when I was already a volunteer at ARBI (The Association for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured) in Calgary. On our first meeting I was told that he had suffered serious injuries in a car crash and at the time I met him he could speak, but with difficulty and physically, although he was in a wheelchair he could do little for himself except keep a determination to work to the best of his ability and restore as much as possible, his former wellbeing. He and I worked together through those years on his physiotherapy along with many professionals and volunteers who worked on other aspects of his recovery such as cognitive skills, music therapy, art therapy, speech and occupational therapy etc. and now a young man has emerged with more skills than we would have dared imagine and a sense of humour that sustained all of us at ARBI.
After our years at ARBI Kylan then secured a place at Bow Valley College in Calgary and is now re-learning long unused computer skills at a very steady pace. He had been a student of political science when misfortune struck and his language skills are strong so he is always able to clearly articulate whatever he is feeling or thinking. Friends and strangers alike are charmed by his lovely caring personality.
He has said that he wants to be involved in this project as an encouragement to other people, not only people who have suffered a brain injury but all people who think they have met an impossible challenge. He also feels it will help him to organize his thoughts properly and perhaps meet new friends.
Kylan still needs his wheelchair, thrives in the company of others, adores children and has been able to turn his life into a life of being interested in the world around him and wanting to make that world smile. He has succeeded, and what an accomplishment.
Fiona Fisher
Tutor
Bow Valley College
Calgary, Alberta