Rick Hansen

          My hero is Rick Hansen.  I chose this particular hero because he went around the globe in a wheelchair.  He has inspired me by letting me know that people who are handicapped can do anything; including sports.

          Rick Hansen was born in Port Alberni, British Columbia. His bith date is August 26, 1957 and he went to the University of British Columbia.  In his early years, he was an active child who loved fishing and sports.  The spinal cord injury occured when Hansen was hit by a truck at the age of 15.  Hansen's family members are Amanda Keid - his wife, and his three daughters: Emma, Alana, and Rebbeca.

          Terry Fox influenced Rick Hansen by inviting him to a game of wheelchair basketball.  That has changed Rick Hansen's life by allowing him to remain athletic even if he was paralyzed.  Hansen was paralyzed from the waist down and had some trouble staying in sports because of the issue.  Rick Hansen also had trouble with sores from the wheelchair in his hand and shoulders.

          Rick Hansen had a couple of medals and games.  He also broke a few records in wheelchair sports.  Hansen went out on a journey with his wheelchair that would make history.  Hansen has wheeled in 34 cities in several countries before coming back to Canada.  Hansen also has raised $200 million for Spinal Cord Research and now, it is the 25th anniversary of the Man in Motion Tour.  Rick Hansen has accomplished many things such as raising money for the Spinal Cord Research, awards, records and maybe his greatest achievement, his family because he got married and has a splendid family with three awesome daughters.

         Rick Hansen has a determined spirit because he never gave up and he kept on going even if he was in pain.  Hansen had a caring trait because he has supported the Spinal Cord Research by raising funds to help.  Rick Hansen also has initiative because he did "The Man In Motion Tour" and that made a fundraising idea and also, with his website. 

          Rick Hansen has influenced me in sports by doing what he has set his mind to.  Also, the fact that he is in a wheelchair and is still enjoying everything he does and because of that, he has inspired me.

          Rick Hansen influences me by telling people that any person of any kind can do sports.  The quote is what you should try to keep in mind whenever you do anything; even this assignment.  Anything is possible if you try.  Hansen is a very persuasive person and since he has a passion for sports, he has a very healthy life.  Rick Hansen has had a very splendid life raising money for Spinal Cord Research.