Baker man shining example of dedication, perseverance
Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Baker Lake (Jan 24/01) - If one were seeking a true example of the triumph of the human spirit, they wouldn't have to look any further than David Nanauq.
The 40-year-old Baker Lake resident is in his second year of helping to coach the peewee level (ages 10 - 13) of the local minor hockey association scene.
Nanauq also organized a junior softball program -- an impressive resume for a man who lost both his hands and lower legs as a young adult.
"Twenty years ago I was drinking with some people, drank too much and ended up passing out outside in the middle of winter," says Nanauq.
"I was hospitalized with extreme frostbite to my limbs, which I had to have amputated.
"I'm using prosthetics on my arms and below my knees on my legs."
Nanauq has learned to skate with his artificial limbs and passed his coaching Level 1 course in January 2000.
He encourages his players to do their best and emphasizes skating, hard work and listening to their coaches.
"My main role is to help the coach wherever I can and make sure the peewees are doing the drills properly."
Nanauq has worked closely with kids 16-and-under in Baker since starting the softball loop four years ago.
He interacts well with the younger set because he understands the challenges they face growing up.
"When I was growing up, there were no organized sports like softball or hockey, so it's good to see our kids having those activities today.
"Watching the kids, I sometimes find myself wishing I had that same experience."
Nanauq says sports help kids to develop character and self-esteem, as well as keeping them physically fit.
He says parents shouldn't just send kids to the arena, they should stay with them.
"I would really encourage all parents who have kids in minor hockey to get more involved themselves.
"We need more parents helping out for minor hockey to grow."
Helping others adjust
Staying active is necessary for Nanauq to stay healthy.
He's studying for his GED and isn't shy about helping others face physical challenges.
Nanauq says family plays the biggest role in a person's life and anyone facing difficult times should use that support.
"I went through a tough time 20 years ago I never thought I'd have to deal with.
"My family kept encouraging me through my therapy and helped keep me strong."
When Nanauq visits his amputee doctor in Winnipeg, he is almost always asked to meet someone going through the same ordeal he faced 20-years ago.
He tries to let the person know what to expect as they face the most difficult stage of their life.
"I try and give them an inspirational talk to help boost their spirits.
"Last summer, I talked with a man who lost both his hands in a farming accident.
"I encouraged him and told him he had to be patient. The rehabilitation process is slow."
Nanauq says most of the people he's talked to have responded well to his words.
"I remind them you only get one chance to go through life and, no matter how difficult it becomes, you have to keep living, day in and day out."
