I have invited politicians, survivors, media in the much needed injury prevention and outcome after injury journey I am about to embark on. % of injury is easily preventable; we have to enforce regulations, laws instead of following suggestions. Guidelines, requirements for protection and education are easy; the outcome after preventable injury is an outstanding deficit to this country, we have to stop BAND-AIDING the problem and look for a prevention measure, an outcome that EVERY citizen can access.

Although my injury was not incurred in a collision, the growing number of the population living with injury from illness, sports related injuries is increasing daily, the eyes of the world will be on our nation, particularly Vancouver in 2010 which is hosting the Winter Olympics, only fitting VIA RAIL was gracious enough to allow me to begin my journey here. What started as a dream turned an idea, an action, and a passion. Today marking my birthday and 5 years of living with an injury, I cannot think of a better gift, a gift that keeps on giving of awareness; a gift that my journey can prevent or give hope!

Thank-you

Ian Young (in Vancouver)