Colton Knowles (Howse) Spinal Injury Recovery Fund

Life can change in an instant. On April 3rd, this became a reality for my family. We received a call that my brother Colton was in a devastating car crash in Vancouver. Colton sustained multiple traumatic injuries, and while he fought to survive, the accident would ultimately result in a complete spinal cord injury and paralysis from his sternum to his feet. Colton, who loves to skateboard and always strived to be physically active, will now be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Luckily, Colton retains full mobility in his arms, and with support and encouragement can learn to be self-sufficient and lead a healthy and happy life.

Colton has a long road ahead of him. Once Colton starts his rehabilitation he will have many new expenses; a wheelchair, adaptive equipment, physiotherapy, and more. Currently, our mother Kym is supporting Colton as he begins his recovery under the care of the medical team at Vancouver General Hospital. The travel and accommodation costs for Kym to be by his side already present a large financial burden. When Colton is well enough, the goal is to move him to Calgary, where his family and support system are based. However, Colton will face unique transport needs due to the nature of his injuries — presenting another cost to him and the family. As Colton begins his new life supported by his network of family and friends in Calgary, he faces more costs to pay for everyday living expenses, accessible housing, home support, and other ongoing therapeutical costs.

Because of his injuries, he will not be able to return to his work in construction — a career where he had acquired great abilities, gained confidence, and earned the admiration of supervisors for his exceptional work. I’ve started this fundraiser in the hopes of helping our family cover the costs of care, and also for Colton to have the ability to concentrate on his recovery and be able to retrain and find his new passion and place in this new world.

Colton deserves a chance. A chance to live a full and happy life and be a son, a brother, and a friend. If there is one person who is up to this challenge, it’s Colton. Growing up, Colton taught me the value of resilience in the face of adversity — and more importantly than anything, taught me the importance of being there for those you love.

The funds raised from this campaign will, immediately, help Kym have the ability to focus on supporting Colton while he is in hospital, and, long term, create a trust for Colton to be able to support his ongoing recovery and rehabilitation. Our wish for Colton is that he lead an independent and fulfilling life.

Please consider helping us make this wish a reality. Any amount, small or big, goes a long way to helping Colton, and our family in this difficult time.

Thank you,

Max Howse (Colton’s Younger Brother), as well as the entire Family of Colton Knowles

GoFundMe Key Fundraising Information: 

This GoFundMe campaign is being organized by Colton Knowles' brother, Max Howse, in close collaboration with Kym Howse, Colton's mother, and Maybry Knowles, Colton's sister. The funds raised from this campaign will be used to support and benefit Colton throughout his recovery and rehabilitation journey. This includes providing financial support for medical expenses, living expenses, and other costs associated with his disability. Additionally, the funds will cover travel and living expenses for Colton's primary support person, Kym Howse, as she relocates to Vancouver to support him during this challenging time. The funds raised will be placed in a trust for Colton, ensuring they are only accessed for the purposes mentioned above. Maximus Howse (Max), Colton's brother, will be responsible for administering the account and maintaining records on the use of the funds. We greatly appreciate any support you can provide to help Colton and his family during this difficult time.