Curling may not be the first sport that comes to mind when the subject of concussions is brought up, but they can happen in all sports.

Hockey Hall of Famer and five-time Vezina Trophy winner Ken Dryden will be coming to Charlottetown next month to facilitate a symposium on concussions, one of the hottest topics in sports. The symposium will take place on October 16th at Rodd Royalty in Charlottetown, from 6.30-9.00pm. There will be no charge to attend the event.

The symposium is being hosted by CHANCES Family Centre, in partnership with Hockey PEI and the support of local sponsors. Mr. Dryden has facilitated similar symposiums focused on concussions in several communities across Canada.

With CBC’s Matt Rainnie emceeing the event, the symposium will explore the many aspects of concussion injuries, including the experiences of athletes and families of those affected, medical experts who treat the injuries, and administrators who are able to effect change. The focus will not just be on the problem, but a search for potential answers and solutions to reduce potential concussion risks in sport.

Panel participants will among others, include athlete Ryan McKenna who has suffered a concussion, sports medicine experts Dr. William Stanish and Dr. Neil McLure, along with Todd Jackson of Hockey Canada, Forbie MacPherson – UPEI Panthers and Kevin Elliott – Charlottetown Islanders. Their collective experience and expertise on the subject will allow a lively discussion viewed from different perspectives.

The evening will conclude with a question and answer session from the audience.

For more details contact: Ann Robertson, Executive Director, CHANCES Family Centre

Tel:      902-892-8744 E:mail: [email protected]