NEWS RELEASE
BLACK LOTUS KICKBOXING ACADEMY
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At a town hall meeting last week in Edmonton, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked pointed questions about his government’s treatment of veterans.
Following a question from a veteran who said he lost his leg to an improvised explosive device while serving in Afghanistan, the PM said veterans “are asking for more than we are able to give right now.” “That seems ridiculous given that these people pledged to lay down their lives and are now left feeling like their country is turning its back on them,” says Jessica McCutcheon, who is the co-owner, along with Nic Langman, of the Black Lotus Kickboxing Academy in Orillia.
After hearing Trudeau’s comment, the duo decided to do something to support Canadian veterans by offering free training at their Powley Street dojo.
“Though it’s not much to offer in the grand scheme of things, we want to try to give something to those who have put so much on the line and hope it can help encourage other locally-owned and operated businesses to follow suit,” said McCutcheon.
In addition to therapies, martial arts have been proven to help those suffering post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental battles, Langman said.
“Boxing and kickboxing both can do amazing things for those with physical and mental disabilities,” said Langman, the master instructor at Black Lotus.
Langman says he is always willing to modify exercises to accommodate any physical or mental hurdles and encourages anyone, no matter their disability, to come out and try a class.
“Veterans can train for free and civilians are always offered a free trial at the academy,” Langman said, noting the facility has programs for children, youth and adults of all abilities.
For more information about the free training for veterans, call 705-481-8198 or email [email protected]
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