#2. MOUSE: Determination & Perseverance

There was a time, not so long ago, when I had a job just like regular people. I was a cook. I lived a bit of a hippie lifestyle, moving along when I wanted to, settling where I wanted to. I was able to meet people from all walks of life no matter where I landed. Traveling the world, learning new recipes, living my dream. I was truly at home no matter where I went, becoming part of every local community I visited.

Then one day, life happened. I had returned home to Canada to start a new life. I was rollerblading down a hill (not something I recommend anymore), when I fell and broke my back. Everything changed. I was no longer able to work in my field. Now I get by collecting bottles and doing miscellaneous custodial work to make ends meet. My name is Mouse

The DTES is home to many people, like Mouse, who have had life events cause them to stumble. They have built a community of people in similar circumstances. They lean on and support each other, much as a family would.

What can take away from Mouse’s story? Determination & Perseverance

Life can take a bad turn any time, anywhere, to any one. Even to you! Perseverance is key to moving forward. Fortunately Mouse's injury wasn't severe. In less than 6 months he was walking again and still with a spring in his step. While breaking your back is a horrible thing to have happen to anyone, Mouse never let it get him down. He managed to get up and power on. Mouse's story showed us just how powerful determination and perseverance can be when recovering and getting back on track.

Not everyone has a network of friends and family to help them when they suffer an injury.

What would you do if life threw you a curve ball like this?

Do you have a plan to overcome the difficulties of losing your home because you can't work?

Do you know where to go for assistance?

Okay, so....you broke your back, lost your home and little to no support system.... now what? Food and shelter are essential. Having a place to rest your head with other like minded individuals reminds you that you're not alone and the sense of community is everywhere in the Downtown Eastside.

FOR SHELTER:

RainCity Housing is a line of support for people experiencing homelessness in Vancouver. It provides emergency shelters and supports for people experiencing mental illness, addictions, trauma and other challenges in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

Contact Info:

604.662.7023

www.raincityhousing.org

info@raincityhousing.org

616 Powell Street

FOR MEALS:

The Dugout provides free daily meals and an inclusive safe space. Go in and enjoy a complimentary snack and a coffee and get away from a feeling of isolation.

Contact Info:

604.685.5239

www.thedugout.org

info@thedugout.org

59 Powell Street

Hours: 7:30am - 4pm Monday to Saturday

7:30am - 3pm Sunday

Thank you for taking the time to hear Mouse's story. What did this story make you feel? Please share in the comments below.

"I am more than my scars"

Andrew Davidson

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#FromAVisitToTheBarber #OvercomingObstacles #PhysicalHealth #MentalHealth #Discipline