The journey from hospital bed to marathon finish line isn’t one many people make, but for Calgary’s Mike Sihvonen, it represents a triumph that extends far beyond the 42.2 kilometers.
Last Sunday, amid the cheers of thousands at the Calgary Marathon, Sihvonen crossed a finish line many thought impossible. Just three years ago, he couldn’t walk independently following a devastating accident that left doctors questioning if he’d ever regain full mobility.
“Every step felt like I was proving someone wrong,” Sihvonen told me when we met at a coffee shop in Kensington earlier this week, his marathon medal still hanging in his car’s rearview mirror. “But more importantly, every kilometer represented the amazing work happening at Alberta Children’s Hospital.”
Sihvonen’s remarkable recovery journey began in 2021 after a serious fall left him with multiple fractures and nerve damage in his lower extremities. His rehabilitation took place at Alberta Children’s Hospital, where he witnessed firsthand the extraordinary care provided to young patients.
“I was a grown man struggling with my recovery, but these kids – some dealing with conditions far worse than mine – showed such resilience,” he recalled, eyes misting slightly. “Their courage became my motivation.”
The specialized physical therapy programs at the hospital gradually helped Sihvonen regain strength and coordination. What started as small movements progressed to standing, then short walks with assistance, and eventually independent mobility.
Dr. Tamara Jenkins, rehabilitation specialist at Alberta Children’s Hospital, wasn’t surprised by Sihvonen’s determination. “Recovery isn’t just physical – it’s deeply psychological,” she explained. “Mike channeled his gratitude into determination, which is powerful medicine.”
That gratitude spawned an ambitious fundraising campaign. Sihvonen set a goal to raise $50,000 for the hospital’s rehabilitation department while training for the marathon. Through community events, social media campaigns, and corporate sponsorships, he exceeded expectations, ultimately raising $67,843.
Calgary’s business community rallied behind the cause. Bow Valley Credit Union matched the first $10,000 in donations, while Suncor Energy contributed another $15,000. Dozens of local businesses displayed collection boxes, with Kensington’s Higher Ground Cafe hosting weekly “Training Talk” sessions where Sihvonen shared his progress with supporters.
“Mike represents what makes Calgary special,” said Councillor Kourtney Penner, who attended Sunday’s race. “When our community faces challenges, we don’t just overcome them – we find ways to lift others up in the process.”
The marathon itself presented unexpected challenges. Calgary’s notorious weather delivered a chilly morning with occasional rain – less than ideal conditions for any runner, especially one with lingering mobility issues.
“Around kilometer 30, my left leg started seizing,” Sihvonen admitted. “For a moment, I worried this was where my journey would end.”
Instead, he found support from fellow runners who recognized him from local news coverage. A small group adjusted their pace to stay with him, offering encouragement during the final, painful stretch.
Among them was Janine Copithorne, a nurse who had briefly worked with Sihvonen during his rehabilitation. “Seeing Mike out there – it wasn’t just inspiring, it was validation of why healthcare workers do what we do,” she told me.
Crossing the finish line in 5 hours and 26 minutes wasn’t about setting records. It was about completing a circle – from patient to advocate, from recipient of care to provider of opportunity.
Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation confirmed the funds will help expand the rehabilitation department’s equipment inventory and support specialized training for staff working with patients facing complex mobility challenges.
“Each year, more than 2,300 children access our rehabilitation services,” said Liz Ballendine, foundation spokesperson. “Mike’s contribution will directly impact their care experience and potentially their recovery outcomes.”
The impact extends beyond the financial. Several families with children currently undergoing rehabilitation attended the marathon to cheer Sihvonen on, including the Patels, whose 9-year-old daughter Amara is recovering from a serious car accident.
“Seeing Mr. Mike running shows Amara what’s possible,” said Priya Patel, Amara’s mother. “Sometimes children need that visual proof that the hard work of recovery leads somewhere wonderful.”
For Calgary’s running community, Sihvonen’s achievement offers perspective. “We all hit walls during marathons,” said Trevor McDonough, president of the Calgary Road Runners. “But Mike’s wall was different – he had to break through barriers most of us never face.”
Looking ahead, Sihvonen has no plans to stop. He’s already registered for next year’s event and hopes to expand his fundraising efforts to include other hospitals in the province.
“This isn’t about me anymore,” he said, finishing his coffee. “It’s about showing what’s possible when a community comes together. Calgary has always been a city that rises to challenges – I’m just trying to keep up with that tradition.”
As he left our interview, a stranger recognized him from news coverage and approached to shake his hand. It was a small moment that illustrated something bigger: how personal journeys can ripple outward, touching lives in unexpected ways.
For the children still working through their rehabilitation at Alberta Children’s Hospital, Sihvonen isn’t just a fundraiser – he’s living proof that finish lines exist, even when the path to them seems impossibly long.
