Fundraising was a bone’s throw away at the Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society’s (LABIS) sixth annual Bones tournament.
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Held on Aug. 23 at the Kitscoty Ball Diamonds, the tournament supports LABIS programming.
“Today is all about getting outside, having fun and hopefully raising some money for LABIS,” said the organization’s director of operations, Verna Haight.
“All the funds from today will come back to LABIS and help run our programs to keep things free for those with brain injuries in Lloydminster.”
LABIS offers in-office programming three days per week, which includes games and field trips.
“LABIS has been in Lloyd for almost 40 years. We’ll be celebrating 40 years next year,” said Haight.
“It started with two ladies who had family members with brain injuries. They had no place to take them that allowed them to have a break.”
According to Haight, keeping the brain active is very important for those who have suffered an injury.
“People with brain injuries feel like they’re different because they’re not able to do the things they used to do, so keeping the brain active is key,” she said.
“We’re here to let them know they’re not that different. You’re still one-of-a-kind to us, and you’re always welcome.
Traditionally known as Bunnock, this year’s tournament included 13 teams, a number Haite would like to see increase for next year.
We’re hoping to have more teams next year to ensure it’s a profitable event for us.”
Jason Wandler was Haight’s right-hand man on Saturday and noted the tournament holds a special place in his heart.
“The work LABIS does is very important,” he said, noting a simple accident could cause a brain injury.
“I’ve been playing in this tournament for about three years now and am helping Verna out a bit with the format.”
Read more: Bones tournament benefits brain injuries
