My Brain Injury Won't Stop Me - Volunteer Trip in 2025
My name is Kyle, and I am from a small town on Vancouver Island.
Unfortunately, 12 years ago, I suffered a life-threatening assault one night that left me with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and lifelong consequences.
Before this life-threatening event, I was well known as someone who was an active volunteer and contributed to different volunteer boards.
On two different occasions I traveled to Tanzania, Africa to volunteer for 8-week periods before the age of twenty-one.
On the first trip I helped build an eco-friendly orphanage for children and young teenagers.
A year later (second trip) brought me back to Tanzania, Africa to work in an orphanage in planning and development department.
Then a year later my life came crashing down and changed my life forever; I have not been on a volunteer mission since.
In 2023 I came out to the public and shared my story in the local media sources:
https://www.victoriabuzz.com/2023/03/i-fell-through-the-cracks-vancouver-island-man-advocates-for-victims-of-brain-injuries/
Today there is a lot of recognition for people with brain injuries and the impact it has on individuals, families, and society.
In August this year, I released a documentary about my brain injury journey.
I believe this will help inspire the millions of people with brain injuries, as well as those without:
My Plan of action and how the funds will be used:
Initially I had partnered with a local non-project organization (Volunteers without Borders) and a Canadian non-profit organization (Devxchange).
Together the plan was to work with them to have a safe volunteer placement overseas in 2025.
However, after careful reflection and discussions with friends and family.
The decision to volunteer and travel overseas has been put on hold.
Instead, I have found a compromise to still volunteer and travel.
The change is that I will volunteer and travel locally.
Please see details of the change:
Program Placement: Once a week volunteer at my local SPCA
What I will be doing:
Working alongside an experienced team to aid with caring for the different animals that need attention and care.
This will include helping to feed the animals, cleaning the area and general maintenance.
As well as helping to monitor the different animal conditions.
The Importance of this Program and Work:
-Provide a safe haven for sick, injured, abandoned and abused animals
-Give them love, care and a roof over their heads until we can find them a new forever home
-SPCA is the only charity with the legal powers to help animals in need and bring animal offenders to justice.
Travel Opportunity:
Travel to the United States for a week in early 2025
This GoFundMe is to help me cover the cost of the following:
Airfare - $850
Accommodation - $700
Travel insurance - $100
Food - $300
Contingency fund - $300
Total: $2250
Two important mentions:
*There will be a live presentation of my volunteer and travel experience planned for April 2025*
*I still have the plan and goal to travel and volunteer overseas when I am more ready.*
In Closing:
I am thankful for the community’s outreach of support so far.
I thank you in advance for any and all donations you make.
If donating to this cause is not an option for you, spreading awareness about the effects a brain injury can have and the cracks in the justice system would be very much appreciated too.
Thank you,
Kyle
Organizer
Kyle Mockford
Organizer
North Cowichan, BC
Devxchange International Programs
Beneficiary