EQuaL Program residents at Carewest Fanning Centre gear up in new sledge hockey and power soccer equipment purchased with donations directed through the Calgary Health Trust.

The true value of teamwork is demonstrated in a recent donation to Carewest’s EQuaL Program. Various individuals came together through a Calgary Health Trust fundraising mail campaign helping raise $9,000 for sports equipment now being used in resident programs. The EQuaL Program caters to a large number of young adults who have disabilities related to a disease or condition, such as multiple sclerosis and brain injury. These individuals currently require full time care but may in time be able to live in the community. Kristina McGowan, recreation therapist for the program, was thrilled to receive the donation.

“Some people seem to be under the impression that life stops once you enter long term care, but it doesn’t,” says Kristina. “I like finding innovative ways to make things possible for our residents and that’s what having this equipment does.”

The donation helped purchase equipment for two unique sports: sledge hockey and power soccer. Funds also helped purchase two bowling ramps which can be mounted to the same universal mount as for power soccer.

“Raising money for sports equipment is important because it gives our younger population more of a level playing field when it comes to sports.” explains Kristina. “It also promotes physical activity, teamwork, and gives our residents a sense of camaraderie which is something that they don’t necessarily get from other activities.”

Residents were introduced to the equipment on International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The new activities were launched in February and residents are already having fun with the equipment.

“Residents are loving it!” says Kristina. “They never thought it would be as much fun as it is. They’re giggling, laughing and bumping into each other. It’s totally different than what they’re used to and it’s a whole lot of fun too!”

In sledge hockey, residents are strapped in a sitting position to a sled-like platform and use two sticks to pull themselves across the floor. Right now, residents are using wheelie platforms. These wheels can be switched out for blades which will offer an exciting new challenge for ice rinks.

Power soccer is different in that residents play in their own wheelchairs. A bumper guard is mounted to their foot rest which, upon contact, bumps an extra large soccer ball.

Bowling ramps can then be mounted to the same universal mount as the soccer guards. Residents position their wheelchair to aim and then roll forward to launch the bowling ball.

Regardless of how each activity is performed, each plays a key role in promoting teamwork, physical activity, and independence.