Mike Stiles shares his Day of Mourning story
The Day of Mourning is an important day to many — especially our own staff, some of whom began a career in health and safety because they were affected by a workplace incident or death.
In December 1984, while training as a horse racing jockey, Mike Stiles sustained an injury that would forever alter his life. At just 18 years old, he suffered a broken neck that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He retained movement in his arms, but lost function in his hands and the ability to grip.
A shift in perspective
Mike's recovery journey was filled with challenges. During his nine-month rehabilitation, he struggled with his new reality and how he would move forward. It took a unique opportunity for him to find an unexpected source of confidence.
"I was feeling extremely disabled, when I saw an opportunity for a shooting demonstration," Mike recalls. "I grew up on a farm in Alberta and used to do a lot of target practice. I couldn't use my hands after the accident, but I found I could still pull the trigger with my knuckle."
This discovery led Mike to a local shooting competition, where he surprised everyone — including himself — by winning six straight matches. "I left with a completely different outlook on life. It was a game changer," he says. From that moment on, he focused on what he could do rather than what he had lost.
"So many times when you're injured, you feel isolated and alone. Then I took this opportunity and, all of a sudden, I felt like I had purpose. I was feeling like I had confidence to keep going, to live my life with a disability."
This confidence would lead Mike to a series of incredible accomplishments. As an athlete, he has participated in athletic competitions worldwide. He’s also dedicated himself to volunteer and charitable organizations that remove barriers to participation.
Skiing at Big White
Finding purpose by helping others
After retraining as a computer programmer, Mike experienced complications related to his spinal cord injury and had to step away from work for a period. He joined WorkSafeBC as an employee in 2022.
"In my role as a service coordinator at WorkSafeBC with the Provincial Serious Injury Support Services team, I relate to many of the individuals who I help. Going through my own return-to-work journey showed me how powerful it is to regain confidence after an injury. Now, I get to help and encourage others take those steps forward — whether it's through retraining, building new skills, or just knowing they're not alone in the process.
"When someone is injured, it's not just about the physical recovery; it's also about the mental and emotional toll. Having been through it myself, I understand what they're facing.”
A day of significance
Mike reflects on the Day of Mourning, remembering friends who have passed away due to work-related injuries and the struggles faced by those who are still dealing with the consequences.
"Day of Mourning is a powerful reminder that every workplace injury has a ripple effect. It changes lives in ways you can't always predict. That's why safety needs to be a priority, so fewer families have to go through the challenges that come with serious injuries.
"I know what it's like to feel uncertain about the future after an injury, but I also know there's a path forward. If I can help even one person find their confidence again — whether through work, community, or just knowing someone understands — then I know I'm making a difference."
Mike with his family
Take a moment on April 28 to remember
Join us in a moment of silence on April 28 at 10:30 a.m. to remember the 138 B.C. workers who died last year from a workplace injury or disease.
For more information on how to recognize the day, visit dayofmourning.bc.ca.