Even though 5-year-old Jagger Donison of Moose Jaw was born without a left arm, that hasn’t stopped him from enjoying his favourite activities.  

With the help of War Amps, Jagger was able to be fitted with a device to allow him to play hockey, a sport that he loves.  

Jagger’s mother Nikki is over the moon happy to be able to see her son live a full and active life with no barriers.  

“To see the joy in him counting down the days until his next hockey game and being one of the other kids,” says Nikki. “That’s what you strive for, is that inclusion in the group and seeing his confidence and skill level grow along with all the smiles and excitement on his face.” 

The device that Jagger was given is very unique in the way that it’s designed for hockey.  

“The hockey stick slides in the end and lets him play hockey.” 

This is Jagger’s first year playing hockey and he is a part of the U7 Red Wings.  

Being 5 years old, Jagger is a very active child, in terms of sports, but with the help of War Amps, he has been able to be fitted with several other devices to allow him to take part in different activities.  

“We got a device for baseball, we have a tumbler arm, which is mushroom-shaped for him to do workouts and cartwheel attempts. We also have a passive hand, which is more cosmetic, and he has a c-shaped device for his bike and scooter.” 

Nikki says that War Amps covered the full cost of the device, as her insurance wouldn’t cover a prosthetic recreational device.  

“That’s 100 per cent funded by War Amps. No money ever leaves our pocket for it. They supply these recreational devices for not only Jagger but CHAMPS across the country.” 

Jagger is a member of the War Amps Child Amputee Program (CHAMP), which allows him to be eligible for financial assistance for artificial limbs and recreational devices.

He also attends regional CHAMP seminars where “Champs” and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying, and parenting a child amputee. 

“It was extremely beneficial for me as a parent. Jagger was born unexpectedly with this, so it was a good resource for me to be like he is going to be okay. To see all the kids playing and interacting and driving their parents crazy by running up and down the halls.” 

She is hoping they can attend a CHAMP seminar this year or next, to allow Jagger to see that there are other kids out there like him.  

The War Amps receives no government grants; its programs are made possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service. 

The Association encourages Champs to develop a positive attitude towards their amputation and try whatever activity they set their mind to.  

“Jagger’s determination and zest for life is an inspiration to all,” said Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the, CHAMP Program. “Thanks to the public’s support of The War Amps Key Tag Service, we are able to help young amputees reach their goals.”