Rick Hansen Foundation

It’s hard to believe that March, 2010 marks 25 years since the Man In Motion World Tour left Vancouver. Who would have guessed this journey would garner so much attention, create a seismic shift in society’s attitudes toward people with disabilities and generate such incredible financial support?

I’ve always believed each of us has the ability to achieve the extraordinary. And, if you are able to ignite passion in others toward a collective vision, then there really are no boundaries. That’s what happened during the Tour; thousands of people were inspired by a vision: a future where people with disabilities enjoyed healthy, active and productive lives and there was a cure for spinal cord injury.

Since 1985, we’ve made incredible progress: advances in research bringing us closer to a cure, enhanced treatments, therapies and care for those who live with a spinal cord injury, and the creation of regional, national and now, international collaborations have positioned Canada as a world leader in spinal cord injury research and care.Yes, we have come a long way, and while there’s still so much more to do, the 25th anniversary presents a perfect opportunity for me to say thank you to everyone who has helped along the way.

I couldn’t possibly list everyone’s name because there are literally thousands. For example, those who supported the Tour including my amazing road crew and the staff, volunteers and board of directors at the Vancouver headquarters. Add to this the volunteers across Canada and around the world; including people from service clubs, community associations, the disabled community, all levels of government, educational institutions, church groups, youth groups, the healthcare and research community, police, non profit organizations, and many, many more.

Over the last 25 years, thousands more have supported our innovative programs and initiatives. There are, however, a few I feel compelled to name as integral to this success. Top of this list are people with disabilities and those who work within the disability community, the federal, provincial and territorial governments, our generous corporate partners and individual donors. Also, our key partners within BC including the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health along with the scientists, researchers, clinicians, rehabilitation specialists and others who have helped make collaborative dreams like the Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, the Rick Hansen Institute and ICORD a reality.

There’s another, smaller community I couldn’t possibly leave out and that is my family, close friends and mentors (some of whom are no longer here). Their gifts include a sense of purpose, hope, trust, respect, advice, friendship and love.

As I look to the future, to the next 25 years, there’s one thing I know for certain: our success will continue to depend upon our ability to instill trust and credibility in our Foundation, and a sense of shared values and passion toward our vision.

To everyone who has supported our work over the years, thank you.

Rick Hansen