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Wings for Life World Run: Join #TeamCoast2Coast to Run Coast-to-Coast for Spinal Cord Research

A team of quadriplegics is rallying Canadians—and people worldwide—to help them conquer a 5,500-kilometer journey from Vancouver to Halifax. Through the innovative Wings for Life World Run app, you can contribute your kilometers from anywhere.

Launched in 2017 by Mike Shaw (BC) and Jim Mullan (NS), #TeamCoast2Coast aims to complete this epic coast-to-coast challenge during the Wings for Life World Run. Though they haven't finished yet, your participation could make it happen on May 9, 2021.

Open to all, the event requires a $28.92 CAD registration fee via the app. Its unique format features a global start time (4 a.m. in BC), with a Catcher Car acting as a moving finish line—once it overtakes you, you're out. The last runner standing wins. Every dollar raised supports the Wings for Life Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated solely to curing spinal cord injuries through research.

Meet #TeamCoast2Coast

This inspiring team includes over a dozen ambassadors, from former pro skiers and Paralympic Hall of Famers to Humboldt survivors and touring musicians.

BC-based members include former pro skier Mike Shaw, pro mountain biker Andrew Cho (Vancouver), Paralympic Hall of Famer Josh Dueck (Vernon), X Games medalist Sam Daniels (Vancouver), and High Five Foundation athlete Olivia Rey (Whistler).

Run Virtually with Olivia

After Mike Shaw's 2013 spinal cord injury, Olivia Rey—then training as a massage therapist in Vancouver—visited him at GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, sharing her skills. Years later, roles reversed after her 2015 car accident caused a C5/C6 injury; Mike supported her in turn.

When Mike introduced her to the Wings for Life World Run, Olivia joined #TeamCoast2Coast in 2017 and has participated annually. Choosing a manual wheelchair for the physical challenge, she navigates Whistler's demanding hills with remarkable arm strength.

In her 2017 debut, Olivia wheeled 2.3 km before the Catcher Car passed her, joined by friends and newcomers under headlamps. The Wings for Life Foundation has funded hundreds of studies, including 38 in Canada and 11 in BC.

Whistler Adaptive Sports has reconnected Olivia with nature through sit-skiing, cross-country skiing, e-biking, and kayaking. Now pursuing a Master's in counseling, she plans an online clinic for those with mobility challenges to address transportation barriers for medical and therapy appointments.

Follow Olivia's tips on her YouTube channel or Instagram (@reyban0), where she inspires others to embrace adventure fearlessly.

Get Involved in the Wings for Life World Run

Support Olivia and #TeamCoast2Coast by registering for the May 9, 2021, event. Perfect for pandemic times, run solo yet connected globally via the app. Download, join the team, start at 4 a.m., and help fund the race for a spinal cord injury cure.

See you on the virtual road!

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