The Power of the Invictus Games

Tricia Hayton, Registered Physiotherapist
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About 18 months ago, a friend of mine contacted me to ask if I wanted to be a lead for the Invictus Games.   At the time, I did not know much about the games, but I said yes, as I’m always willing to help a friend.   I asked if I could be the medical lead for Wheelchair Rugby, and that is how this adventure began.

If you Google the Invictus Games, you will see that Toronto is hosting the third ever games.   Invictus Games is the inspiration of Prince Harry, who stated during his opening ceremony speech that his life changed forever during his time in the British Armed Forces.  It was then that he decided to use his position of power to assist with wounded warriors’ recovery. 

If you look a little deeper, you will find that Toronto is hosting veterans from 17 nations including Iraq, Jordan, and Georgia, with Romania and Ukraine joining this year.  These men and women, all injured in the line of duty, will compete in 14 sports throughout the Greater Toronto Area.  Many of these warriors have not only physical injuries, but mental injuries as well.  

What you will not find when you Google the Invictus Games is the gratitude, the tears, and the stories that come from working with these amazing athletes.  They have all suffered a loss, and being selected to be part of the games is just part of their recovery as they adjust to new abilities, new expectations, and for some, new dreams and goals.   The focus of these games is not to win – although they are very competitive people by nature – but to use organized sport to rehabilitate mentally and physically.

I have been part of many games, but I have never had an experience like this.  I encourage everyone in the Toronto area to take advantage of the last few days of competition to come be a part of it.   Take the time to thank these men and women for their service.    Personally, I know that I will never be quite the same.  

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