Kevin Pearce - Snowboarder - Brother

Kevin Pearce was recently profiled by Tom Brokaw on NBC's coverage of the Vancouver Olympics. Click HERE to see the video.

I had never heard of Kevin Pearce or his family, but what an amazing story on so many levels.

Kevin is a snowboarder and was to be a contender for a medal but just months before the Olympics began he suffered a traumatic brain injury (for more information on TBI, click HERE) while practicing a trick. Luckily he was wearing a helmet, otherwise he would have likely died on impact. Instead he is on a journey of recovery.

Kevin has a very supportive family - parents Pia and Simon and 3 older brothers including David who has Down Syndrome.

The video shows some time spent with Kevin and David. The brotherly bond is definitely there. Kevin was assisting David on a skate board and included him in an interview where David expressed his hopes for his brother to do well in the Olympics.

Here is what struck me...Kevin's mom Pia said that she was much more prepared for handling Kevin's recovery because of her experience with David. She said that she learned how to be more patient. Kevin is improving, but still cannot walk and his speech, vision and coordination are all affected. It took David three years to learn how to buckle his seat belt...but he did it and so will Kevin!

Apparently Kevin already has his sense of humor back. While wrapping up this story, Tom related that Kevin's brother told him that NBC was coming to interview the family and Kevin's response was "why aren't they coming to interview me?"! He said it with a smile.

We wish Kevin all the best in his recovery.

This is a very touching story, make sure to watch the video.

To join Kevin's Facebook Page, set up by his family, click HERE.

We would be interested to know how having a child with special needs affects other areas in your life in a positive way. Share your story in the comments section!

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