Two nights ago I attended the Mental Health Awards gathering at the Derryfield Country Club. The event featured a talk by Travis Roy, a young man who, 20 years ago, become a quadriplegic after just 11 seconds of a Boston University hockey game. Roy went into the boards and broke his back. Eleven seconds of play changed his life. He has been in a chair for 20 years and has made a life for himself.
Travis has raised $10 million for his foundation which helps spinal cord injured people and also funds research to help find a way to restore movement in one’s body.
He spoke of challenges and goals – first as a young boy wanting to become a hockey player, then wanting to score some goals and go on to college, and maybe then on to the NHL. All that came to an end in 11 seconds. He had to create new goals to survive and do more with his mind because his body was different.
This young man has made his mark by helping others. Hearing of his courage and commitment was very moving. Travis Roy has made a difference. How many of us can say we have dealt with adversity and gone on to make life better for others?
Travis is a young man who has to fight every day to keep the spirit alive. He is an example of why we believe that something good can happen even in our darkest hour. Travis, a man with the courage of a lion and a heart of gold.
Sen. Lou D’Allesandro is from Manchester and has represented the people of District 20 for nine terms. For the 2015-2016 legislative session he is Vice Chairman of the Ways & Means Committee and sits on the Finance and Capital Budget Committees. You can reach Sen. D’Allensandro at dalas@leg.state.nh.usSen. Lou D’Allesandro is from Manchester and has represented the people of District 20 for nine terms. For the 2015-2016 legislative session he is Vice Chairman of the Ways & Means Committee and sits on the Finance and Capital Budget Committees. You can reach Sen. D’Allensandro at dalas@leg.state.nh.us
