Memorial donation reminds people to "Be Happy" years after man’s death

“Don’t worry, be happy.” The phrase glides along behind riders of the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (CKRI) adaptive cycling program. Also, on the safety flags, “Honoring Martin Petit."

The flags (used to increase the visibility of cyclists) were purchased with a donation from Petit’s memorial. His mom, Libby, explained why her family chose to give back to CKRI.

“I met with my other two children, and we discussed the programs at Courage Kenny.  We all agreed that we would like the money to go to a program where people learn to live with their injuries rather than expecting the big miracle,” Libby said. (Pictured: Martin's brother Colin, sister-in-law Maggie, mother Libby)

In 2005, Martin was in a car accident and suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. He spent time recovering at the Transitional Rehabilitation Program at Allina Health’s Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Martin passed away in 2018.

“We’re grateful Libby and her family thought of us and our CKRI clients. After meeting with Libby, we wanted to find a way to honor Martin in an interactive way and address a need in one of our programs,” said Rose Adams with the Allina Health Foundation. “Libby loved the idea of the safety flags and shared Martin’s favorite saying so we could have them printed on them. The remainder of the memorial went to support Adaptive Sports & Recreation.”

The CKRI Adaptive Sports & Recreation program supports people of all ages and abilities to pursue their goals to live, work, learn and play. The activities are adapted to enhance participants’ independence, improve self-confidence and encourage an active, healthy lifestyle. 

Learn more about the cycling program and other programs through Courage Kenny Adaptive Sports & Recreation.