Local resident helps to rehabilitate fellow veterans

“‘Invictus’ means ‘undefeated.’” This is the mantra of the international charity “Invictus Games”, an effort to connect veterans from all walks of life, through the rehabilitation of team sports. Bob Beaudry is one such veteran representing both Canada, and our community. “It’s an opportunity of a lifetime, both for me, my family and for the veterans who are afraid to speak up,” Bob says in regards to what Invictus Games means to him. Bob is a former Air Force Medic, and now works with fellow veterans through OSISS (operational stress injury social support). Bob through OSISS supports veterans who’ve been afflicted by physical and mental trauma.

Bob speaks about how difficult it is for returning veterans to acclimate, and how he assists in this process: “It’s kind of an identity loss when you’re no longer in the military.” OSISS isn’t the only means to help, however. Many of the veterans he’s helped have gone on to compete in the Invictus Games. “They kept telling me ‘you should apply too.’” Despite his reservations, Bob was inspired by those he helped who had encouraged him to register. Bob is competing in archery, swimming and wheelchair rugby. “I was ecstatic. I never expected to be chose,” remarked Bob on his acceptance. Since the program had gone on a hiatus, Bob had not anticipated how many veterans would be applying. COVID-19 had caused the games to be momentarily paused, but now it looks to be in full swing.

Despite Invictus being a sporting event, the mission statement hasn’t been lost. ““The purpose of the Invictus Games is to get injured members towards a healthier life through sport.”

“It’s not about winning.” Bob elaborates on Invictus’ goal to rehabilitate participants and to allow the members to reconnect. The program accommodates everyone participating, and takes how able-bodied the participants are, into consideration. “You train as much as you want, or as little as you want. You train within your own limitations.” Bob had joined the Ottawa Stingers; a local wheelchair rugby team to train for his team sport. “It’s very humbling to be able to play the type of sport that they play.” 

Bob had chosen wheelchair rugby to get out of his comfort zone so-to-speak. Athletes are encouraged to participate in sports they’ve never done, and Bob has nothing but admiration for his team. “There’s thirty members on Team Canada for this year’s games. It’s made up of both men and women, able-bodied, and non able-bodied.” Invictus Games is an international organization, so each country represents each particular sport. This year, the event is held in Düsseldorf, Germany. “It’s an opportunity for me to represent my country again.” Bob will be competing from September 7th to the 17th, 2023.