Grant was in his mid-fifties – maybe a bit overweight but with no other cardiovascular risk factors. However, a stroke hit and hit hard. His right side was very compromised, he had little use of his hands, he was unable to walk or lift his right arm. He was hospitalized in Red Deer for 4 months and then went to the Centennial Centre in Ponoka for rehab for 6 months. His doctor had told him that he would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of his life and would never walk again or be able to recover from this stroke. This made Grant angry as he didn’t want this prognosis.

Since that time, he has put a lot of work and effort into getting better. The physios and rehab team helped him make progress, but he kept asking them how he could get more training. They were able to refer him to Recreation Therapy at RDPCN. His therapist arranged to work with him at the Gary W Harris Canada Games Centre three times per week. He is doing a lot better now. He can walk with a cane and he can lift 30 pounds on the machines at the gym. He can now clap hands. He has gained strength and control, his gait has improved along with his endurance, and he has an increased range of motion and strength in his upper extremities. He can now do many more tasks of daily living such as carry groceries, cook and barbeque.

Grant states that his doctor can’t believe his progress. Other people he knows have said very similar things. Working with the Rec Therapist has been very encouraging and supportive. The Rec Therapist has really helped me to stay motivated. Having a plan for myself also helps the attendants at the Gary Harris Centre to work with me to move forward. I have highly recommended this program to others I know who have had a stroke.

My work is not done but I am proud of the progress I have made and thankful for everything I can do for myself.

To learn more about the RDPCN programs, visit www.reddeerpcn.com

Gordon: The Street Clinic Really Helped Me

News Release from Innisfail RCMP

Drug Investigation Leads to Charges

A drug investigation at the Bowden Institution has resulted in charges after a year and a half long investigation. In November of 2019 Bowden Institution staff responded to suspicious activity on Correctional Service Canada’s property. A search was conducted that resulted in locating contraband that had been concealed on the property. The contraband packages contained fentanyl, methamphetamine, cannabis concentrates and tobacco. Innisfail RCMP General Investigation Section worked on the investigation in partnership with the Bowden Institution’s Security Intelligence Office and Slave Lake RCMP General Investigation Section.

Raymond Foss (32), Braden Foster (31) and Joshua Laboucan (23) all of Slave Lake, Alta., have been charged with:

• Trafficking a controlled substance, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (x2),
• Distribute Cannabis, contrary to the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, and
• Trespass by night.

Foss and Foster were arrested and after a judicial release hearing were remanded into custody.  After a subsequent bail hearing, Foss was released.  Foss and Foster’s next Court appearances are both scheduled for August 19, 2021 in Red Deer Provincial Court. Laboucan remains at large with outstanding warrants for his arrest.

Innisfail RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity.  Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.