sheldonkennedy

Sheldon Kennedy

Next week, a pair of outstanding individuals will be the recipients of the Scotiabank Humanitarian Award for Lifetime Achievement.

One of those will be former Swift Current Broncos player Sheldon Kennedy, who has created worldwide awareness for abuse victims after revealing he was abused by former Broncos Head Coach Graham James.

For Kennedy it's an opportunity to bring some closure to a long saga. "In a town or city like Swift Current, it affects a lot more than just the individual that is the victim. I think when things like (the Humanitarian Awards) happen within those communities, there's a lot of closure that happens with a lot of different people," he says.

"I was kind of caught by surprised," Kennedy said when he found out he would be presented with the award. "I think sometimes you put your head down do what's in front of you without really looking back and seeing what you've done."

Kennedy says he carries no resentment towards Swift Current and that he's looking forward to experiencing his first Bronco game since he left the city years ago.

Along with Kennedy, Herbert's Esther Sigurdson will be an award recipient as well being recognized for her contributions to the health care field.

The awards gala is set for February 17th. Tickets can still be purchased by contacting the Dr. Noble Irwin Healthcare Foundation at 778-3314.

Sheldon Kennedy on receiving a Scotiabank Humanitarian Award and his return to Swift Current...