What would it be like if you woke up one day and you couldn't wiggle your toes? What would you do?
The students at North Battleford Comprehensive High School heard first hand about exactly what that experience is like.
May 8, the NBCHS SADD Chapter brought in guest speaker Kevin Brooks from British Columbia. Brooks told a story of how he, like many of our youth today, make stupid choices, risk-taking choices, all while thinking everything would turn out OK.
Brooks's fatal choice of choosing to drink and drive home from a party one night left him paralyzed and his good friend gone forever.
Brooks spoke candidly to the students and let them into his life and what it was like to now live with the consequences of his actions. His friend's parents were adamant he did not receive jail time, as the wheelchair and memory were punishment enough.
Brooks was then motivated to do all he could with his new life. He speaks all across North America, flying from Florida to Alaska in a matter of days.
Brooks concluded his presentation with a moment of remembrance as he pointed to three empty chairs that sat beside him in the gym. They represent not only his friend who was with him that fateful night, but others who had been taken from his life.
He said, "I hope there are never anymore chairs I have to put up here."
It was a sombre reminder of how precious life is and to make the most of it with all you have. For more information on Brooks; check out his website at www.kevinbrooks.ca.
