TORONTO -- His Royal Highness Prince Harry continued his commitment to the Invictus Games by attending the opening session of the Canadian Institute for Military and Veterans Health Research Conference.
For seven years, CIMVHR has worked to engage existing academic research and resources and increase research capacity that examines the role of adaptive sports in the rehabilitation of wounded, ill and injured military personnel and their families.
The purpose of the conference was to exchange ideas, share insight and learn how to further help Veterans and their families.
Invictus Games CEO Mike Burns opened the session.
"We are delivering more than sports here. There are so many broader issues to look at. Its therapy, support, recovery, motivation and inspiration," Burns said. "In sports there is a starting line, the starting line for our Soldiers is the day they say I'm going to get out of bed, try an adaptive sport and engage with my family," he said.
According to Dr. Celina Shirazipour, a leading sports psychologist with CIMVHR, the study included interviews with Invictus Games competitors and their family members. Participants answered a series of questions regarding their experiences, training for the games, and the long term effects of the Games. Questions included but were not limited to the type of support networks, employment and health.
Team Canada Stéphane Moreau is a 2014 and 2017 Games participant and spoke at the conference
"I cannot begin to explain to you what these Games have meant to me. It was difficult to get off the couch after my injuries. The Games changed my life and I am now overcoming obstacles and challenges that once existed. It's been a gift from heaven," Moreau said.
The hour long event commenced with closing remarks from his Royal Highness and Invictus Games founder.
"As you know, no surprise, I am extremely passionate about the men and women who serve the military. Seeing the impact of Warrior Games in Colorado changed me. I knew I needed to bring it to an International level. These individuals are fighting on the battlefield and off, fighting to stay alive. I recently received a letter from a woman thanking me for giving her, her husband back. Sports may not be the complete answer, but love, competition and team work will certainly make a difference."
This year's games run through Sept. 30. Approximately 550 competitors from 17 nations, including Iraq and Afghanistan are slated to compete in 12 sports, including track and field, swimming and, in a first for the Invictus Games, golf.
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