On Tuesday all Grade 11 Physical Education students participated in the P.A.R.T.Y (Preventing Alcohol Related Trauma in Youth) program at Sunnybrook Hospital. It was an eye opening learning experiences for all involved. We met with nurses, trauma doctors, police officers and paramedics, that explain the consequences of risk taking acitivities such as drinking and driving, texting and driving, wearing seatbelts, using helmets, and water dangers. We heard about the consequences of head and spinal cord injuries and how they greatly effect a person’s life as well as their families. We toured Sunnybrook Hospital, visiting the Trauma Room, ICU, Blood Bank, and Critical Care Recovery. Seeing, smelling and hearing all commotion that revolves around traumas. In the afternoon we walked over to Lynhurst Rehabillation Center where we saw first hand what it is like to struggle through physiotherapy and occupational therapy after a spinal cord and brain injury. To conclude the day we were fortunate enough to hear personal stories of three injury survivors. These individuals stories were sad and difficult to hear, but inspiring as well. To listen to the struggles they have encountered as a result of their injuries, made us all appreciate our lives a little more. Leaving from the day I think everyone took away a valuable lesson; listen to that little voice in your head telling you something isn’t right and then take that extra 30 seconds before making a decision that could change your life forever.
