I want to tell you about my brother’s and my friend Al. I call Al my brother from another mother. Al’s Dad and our Dad were business partners at one time. Kevin and Al hung out in high school and have been close pals ever since. They recently went on the motorcycle adventure to Alaska together that I wrote about recently. (That story HERE)To us, he’s Al. To others, he’s Sgt. (retired) Al McFarlane, a veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force and a competitor in the Invictus Games in Toronto next month. He’s competing in archery, a sport he never even considered taking up until he decided to try out for Canada’s national team. Now he loves it and the concentration it requires.
Al served overseas as a peacekeeper. He also conducted investigations into tragedies such as the downing of our military’s planes (including the Snowbirds) and inspected the protective gear of our fallen soldiers. It’s not easy work but it’s important. Al is also one of the thousands of army veterans who suffer after-effects from their roles in the armed forces. From PTSD to the loss of limbs to anxiety and depression, these veterans often also run into roadblocks while simply trying to get treatment once they get home. The camaraderie of the games gives soldiers who are wounded, ill or injured a network of supporters who know what they’ve been through. They get instant understanding and acceptance. Game preparations give them a goal and a challenge.
Prince Harry started the Invictus Games just a few years ago. This is its first time in Canada, September 23-30 at various venues in Toronto. They have big names lined up for the opening and closing ceremonies, including Sarah McLachlan, Alessia Cara and Bryan Adams. On Monday they added Bruce Springsteen. Last year in Orlando, Canada won ten gold medals, eight silver and four bronze. Al says his goal is simply to compete and to come away with an athlete’s commemorative coin that proves he was part of the event. After all, the healing comes from being there. Winning is just a bonus.