Photo: Courtesy of Steve Andrews
I first met Brendan on a random September afternoon in Whistler’s Village Square. Within a few minutes of our mutual friend introducing us, we were deep in a conversation entailing everything from metaphysics and meditation to hamburgers. Over the years, a solid friendship developed, and although our lives would diverge and reconnect at random, he always left me with a positive thought to chew on, whatever length of time our interactions were.
Even the T-shirts he designed through his label Annum Clothing would leave you thinking and feeling positively. “Joy, Truth, Love: The FUNdamentals” — it’s hard to argue with that.
Photo: Courtesy of Steve Andrews
Aside from being a talented snowboarder and all-around awesome guy, Brendan cared deeply about the community he was a part of. This was nowhere more evident during Halloween when Brendan would transform his place in Brio into a haunted house for all to enjoy. He spent countless hours, days, weeks and months preparing for it, and let anyone in through the gates by donation.
Photo: Courtesy of Steve Andrews
The proceeds of which went to help out Whistler Community services, a local charity devoted to helping out the less fortunate through dozens of programs including the Food Bank, counselling for everything from drugs and alcohol to homesickness, and everything in between. Over the three years he’s run the house he and his team of volleys have raised thousands for the cause.
As someone who has always selflessly paid it forward, Brendan is now himself in a time of need. One month ago he overshot a landing in the park on Blackcomb and hit his back, breaking his vertebra and losing all feeling below the waist. It’s something that can happen to all of us, and he was unfortunately the one who was dealt the unfair hand this time around.
Photo: Courtesy of Steve Andrews
But if anyone is up to the challenge of walking again, it is Brendan. This guy beams with such positivity, even now, that you can’t help but root for him. But like most snowboard bums, his funds are short, as life in the mountains (at least for most of us) is one absent of material wealth. Although Brendan has never sought money, sometimes we need to reach out for others to lend a hand, and I’m doing so on his behalf. Because he would do it for me. And he’d probably do it for you, too — because he’s that kind of guy.
So if you can spare a few bucks, please help Brendan with some support for what is a long and challenging road ahead. It’s one that all of us risk every day we head up the hill. You can donate to Brendan’s recovery here. If you would rather send him physical gift or card, you can send it to:
Brendan Cavanaugh
C/O GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre
4255 Laurel Street
Vancouver, BC V5Z 2G9, Canada
Or send him an email of encouragement. Really — anything and everything helps.
On behalf of Brendan, myself, and the Whistler community we both hold so dear, thank you.
