The Hand Hills Lake Stampede is back for its 104th show, and they are excited to announce Curtis Anderson will open the event.
Anderson had a serious brain injury riding at the Ponoka Stampede in 2002, He is excited to be a part of it. During his cowboy career, he rode at the Hand Hills Lake Stampede. Today he is a motivational speaker.
“It is quite an honour to be asked to open the Hand Hills Lake Stampede. In reality that is a chance of a lifetime because not too many people get the opportunity to do it,” Anderson told the Mail.
He shared his story with the Mail.
On June 26, 2002, he was riding at the Ponoka Stampede, one of the fifth biggest rodeos in the world. The last thing he remembers is setting his rope on a bull named Real Handy. They opened the gate, he lost his balance and his head smashed into the bull’s head twice.
He spent three weeks in a drug-induced coma.
“The first thing I remember is the ambulance ride to the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. I didn’t know where I was going, didn’t know what had happened. I soon realized that I could no longer walk, no longer talk or move my left arm,” he said.
He has since learned, going into the event, he had a severe concussion from a rodeo in Innisfail.
The little communication he had with his family he had to write.
He had to relearn everything.
He went from a physiotherapist helping an hour a day, just to take a few steps, to last year, he was able to walk 19.8 miles. He says even today, he makes progress every day.
“Throughout my recovery people look at me and get the impression that I am unable to do things. You’re better off to do it on your own because if you never try, you won’t get better,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if it takes you 10 times as long, you’re still able to do it on your own.”
“I have never walked a mile in anyone else’s boots, but I know what it means to never give up.”
He says he will have an opportunity to speak and share a bit of his story. He often has a great response, especially from other bull riders.
“I’m living proof of what happens when you go back too soon without letting your brain heal. So I talk to the guys one-on-one and tell them to take the time and go back when you’re ready.”
He has seen a big change in the sport he loves.
“When I got hurt, two guys in Western Canada wore a helmet, now that’s probably 95 per cent. They are more aware of concussions, and guys are taking better care of themselves.”
“The bull Real Handy won the fight that day fair and square. Real Handy is long gone hamburger, and I am still here. So I am still the champion.”
The Hand Hills Lake Stampede goes from Friday, June 3 to Sunday, June 5. On Friday, slack starts at 10 a.m., and the trade show opens at noon. Chucks and chariots follow the rodeo.
The action continues on Saturday and Sunday with the opening ceremonies, wild horse and pony races, rodeo, and chariots and chucks. Backroad Traveller will be playing at the kickoff party Friday night, and Cat Country at the Cowboy Cabaret on Saturday.
For more information, see www.handhills.ab.ca
