Hudson Bay Amputee's Story Inspires Kids at War Amps Western Seminar Today

SASKATOON, SK, July 14, 2012 /CNW/ - Having lost part of his left leg in a farm accident at the age of 4, Tim Bank of Hudson Bay, SK, remembers well the challenges of growing up as an amputee.

Today at 1 p.m. in the Centre Ballroom of Saskatoon's Sheraton Cavalier Hotel (612 Spadina Crescent East), he will tell child amputees attending The War Amps 2012 Western Child Amputee (CHAMP) Seminar his inspiring story.

Enrolled in CHAMP, Tim received peer support and financial assistance with his artificial limbs.  He later "gave back" by being a Junior Counsellor to younger Champs and passing on the PLAYSAFE message with The War Amps float in parades.  He will describe with candour and humour how he overcame the bumps in the road to be the success he is today, living in Hudson Bay with his wife and three sons and working in the agriculture industry.

At 1:30 p.m., in the same room, Champs from across the Western provinces will take part in the Amputees in Action session, demonstrating the recreational limbs and devices they use to lead active lives, such as those for hockey, cycling and swimming.

Media are welcome to attend the following sessions today, or interviews with the Champs can be arranged at any time:

8:50 a.m. -	"Play & Learn" (East Ballroom)
	"PLAYSAFE!" (Canadian Room)
	"Keeping Active" (South & West Ballrooms)
10:15 a.m. -	"Healthy Living for Arm/Leg Amputees" (Centre/Starlight Room)
1 p.m. -	"Tim Bank - Life as a CHAMP" (Centre Ballroom)
1:30 p.m. -	"Amputees in Action!" (Centre Ballroom)
3:30 p.m -	"Discussion Groups for Arm/Leg Amputees" (Centre/East Ballrooms)

Danita Chisholm, Executive Director, Communications
 1 [phone] or 1 877 60MEDIA