Ian Locke & Family - Serious Rugby Injury

On June 5th, 2023, Ian Locke, a dedicated member of The Earl of March Secondary School Rugby Team, found himself in a fateful collision with an opposing player's shoulder directly to his head. The impact was serious, leaving him in a deteriorating state of consciousness, and prompting an immediate call of paramedics. Following brain scans at the hospital, medical professionals discovered internal bleeding, necessitating emergency surgery that same night in an attempt to alleviate pressure on Ian’s brain.

Thanks to the excellent neurosurgeons at CHEO (are we ever lucky to live in Ottawa), and Ian's strength, he showed significant progress in his recovery the following day as he resumed conversation and was eating again. And although things were progressing well through the following days, with Ian up on his feet and moving around, he now faces a second surgery to address persistent swelling.

As one of Ian's rugby coaches, I have witnessed his exceptional athleticism since the day he stepped onto the pitch last fall. A true football enthusiast, he has actively participated in multiple seasons with the Kanata Knights. Moreover, Ian excels academically and is known for his genuine friendships with others.

While I initially had limited interaction with Ian's mom and dad, Heather and Duane, during the earlier part of the season, they made a memorable impression as the weather grew warmer. Duane would bring drinks in a large cooler and wagon, ensuring all our players had access to cold water and freezies. On the day of the tragic accident, he once again arrived with a sizable cooler, joining us on the sideline. Duane's unwavering support for his son was evident as he stood on the sidelines, enthusiastically recording the game and cheering Ian on.

As I've had the opportunity to learn more about Duane, I've found out that he works as a truck driver, and is taking unpaid time away to care for his son. In an effort to help alleviate some of the financial stress that comes with this priority, I'm hoping that people might find it in them to donate a small amount so that the family can continue to take all the time they need to be with Ian as he works through his recovery. In addition, I've heard Ian quite likes Lego, and will have a lot of time on his hands without screens and devices to keep him occupied. It would be nice if his dad Duane, mom Heather, and the rest of his family could support Ian's recovery how they see fit and provide him with anything that will help him get through the coming weeks and months of a likely long recovery.

When I asked Duane if he and the family had already setup or would be okay with a GoFundMe, he said he was the type of person that would be uncomfortable getting gifts at a wedding, let alone money from strangers - but that if it was thought people would receive it positively, and would want to help, that it would be alright (and that he could always donate any excess to the hospital).

I know as a teacher, a coach, and a community member, that people are generous when others are in a time of need like this. Please share far and wide and donate what you can to help this deserving family through this terrible accident. I'll try to add some updates as more news is provided about Ian's recovery.

Adam Lecuyer