Shandia’s Paralympic update from the Whistler Polyclinic
Hi from Whistler.
It has been busy. Things in the Whistler polyclinic are chugging along. As with the Olympics we are seeing a lot of athletes from smaller countries such as Bulgaria and Kazakstan etc. Though this time around we have had quite a few Canadian athletes.
The real story of these Games is the athletes and their stories. From people who had an accident doing an extreme sport, those from Eastern Block countries injured by bombs and grenades, western world soldiers injured in battle overseas, to those born with their disability. They all have very different backgrounds, but have had the courage to ‘Soldier On’ through sport. For many sport is what has made the difference in their lives and help
The vibe is definitely different from the Olympics, but just as special. I was impressed with the crowds at the x-country and alpine events. Incredibly enthusiastic, lots of school groups. The kids were lined up to get autographs from athletes from all countries! We are lucky to have access to everything with our accreditation so being able to see these guys compete live has really helped to bring it full circle for me. You can’t help but be inspired by watching how hard they compete. The visually impaired skiiers on the downhill course are incredible, they fly!!
I got to watch Brian McKeevor win a gold medal live and then meet him in the clinic when he saw a colleague! That was pretty cool. Overall I have seen Canada win 3 gold medals!
Once again, like the Olympics, working with all the huge variety of disciplines in the Polyclinic as one equal team has been amazing. The exchange of ideas is pretty cool!
Cheers, Shandia
(sent from my Blackberry)
Shandia Cordingley is physio from Penticton, BC. She is volunteering at the Polyclinic in Whistler for both the Olympics and Paralympic Games
