Nearly three weeks after being paralyzed following a bus crash in Saskatchewan, Airdrie's Ryan Straschnitzki continues his recovery in Calgary.

The 19-year-old was transferred to Foothills Hospital last week as he works more on his rehabilitation.

(Photo Courtesy: Tom Straschnitzki)

Straschnitzki said the progress so far has been moving well.

“It’s been getting better every day. I set little challenges for myself and push myself to get there. Even the physio Doctors say it’s getting better every day. I’m letting my body heal, just letting the bones and muscles heal. Once that’s ready to go I’ll be able to start doing real physio and using my arms a lot more. This will be a lot better once everything’s healed.”

Although he is grateful to be closer to home, his heart still remains with his teammates recovering back in Saskatoon.

“I want to be there for them. We’re all in each other’s hearts. We keep in touch over text. Being in Alberta isn’t bad, I am closer to friends and family but at the same time I’d rather be in Saskatoon or Saskatchewan and just see my teammates again.”

Ryan said he’s looking forward to the day when his teammates can reunite.

One of the reasons why Ryan continues to move well in his recovery is because of the support of so many from Airdrie and across the country. He said having that many people cheering him on is incredible.

“It’s so uplifting. Getting these messages from everyone, it’s just fantastic to know that people from everywhere are supporting you and your teammates. I have no words to say, it’s just awesome. I can’t thank everyone enough, the support’s been unreal.”

Straschnitzki was able to watch the vigil held at Chinook Winds Park recently through a Facebook live stream. Over a thousand people from the community and Calgary came to show their support for Ryan that night.

 

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