Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute enables active life for Landwehr brothers
As parents, Liz and Kevin have navigated the health and social complexities surrounding their sons and found a second home at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. There, the therapists and sports and recreation staff and families have brought support, education and friendship.
Hunter was about a year old when Liz and Kevin first brought him to Courage Kenny. They had been told Hunter would never walk. Yet with the help of his physical and occupational therapists, Hunter learned how to crawl and then walk. He developed his strength and abilities. Now, he walks with the support of braces on his legs.
Ben started therapy at Courage Kenny at just 14 months old to develop his strength and abilities. “We trust the therapists so much, and they’ve been nothing but great,” said Liz.
When the boys were younger, Hunter participated in some athletic activities with his peers. Eventually, though, it became difficult for him to keep pace with other children. That’s when the family turned to the Sports and Recreation programs at Courage Kenny. And there’s been no looking back.
The brothers have participated in tennis, golf, rock climbing, track and field, and swim lessons. Through the activities, strong friendships have been made between kids and parents alike. “It’s like a family to us,” said Kevin.
Hunter and Ben both play on the Rolling Rowdies traveling wheelchair basketball team. This includes five out-of-state tournaments – including the national tournament this year where they split their games with two wins and two losses.
Outside of their basketball team and other sports activities, both Ben and Hunter are very active. The family purchased a house with a 10-car detached garage where the boys play basketball and other games. When they aren’t playing sports, the brothers enjoy playing video games, attending Timberwolves games, and spending time outdoors. Hunter took down an 11-point buck on his first hunting trip last year. Ben enjoys Legos and has an impressive license plate collection featuring all 50 states.
Both boys highly recommend the Courage Kenny Sports and Recreation programs. “They should try it out because it’s fun and because it makes it so people in a wheelchair can play a sport,” said Hunter. “It’s an opportunity for people to do what pro athletes can do.”
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