Friends and family of Dave Mesenchuk are getting together to host a fundraiser in Canal Flats on February 26.

In November while on his way to work Mesenchuk was involved in a serious car accident which resulted in a spinal cord injury. After the accident he was flown to the Foothills Hospital where he continues to undergo rehabilitation for his injuries. Mesenchuk has been diagnosed as a quadriplegic but has shown a positive outlook for the future while attempting to regain his health. While in Calgary Mesenchuk has had the support of his wife Denise, who has been by his side daily.

As a result people are rallying around the family and will hold the Red and Blue for Big Mez hockey tournament at the Canal Flats Civic Centre and a special benefit with a live and silent auction.

Tanya Roe is one of the people who are setting up the event. Roe said the group is just trying “to show them support, that we care and want to help share the burden.”

“The benefit is being held Saturday February 26 with tickets costing $30 and only 220 tickets available.  There will be a shuttle back to Invermere throughout the night. The hockey tournament will be eight teams.  Once we have enough people signed  up and paid we will pass the names on to Dave and he will draft the teams from his room in Calgary so we would like to give him some time to do that.  There will be supper for the players Friday night and breakfast Saturday and Sunday mornings.  The cost is $60 per player,” Roe said.

Currently a group of 10 people on the planning committee is collecting items which will be used as part of a silent and live auction at the evening dance. Roe was quick to point out that this event would not

see Hockey on page 2