Council recognizes local Invictus Games athlete and military veteran

Township of Severn welcomed athlete, veteran, and community member Melissa Henderson to Council on May 7 in celebration of her achievements at the 2025 Invictus Games.

The Invictus Games, which began in 2014, is a global multi-sport event aimed at supporting the recovery of wounded, injured, and ill military personnel, both active and veterans.

After seven years of military service, Melissa was discharged in 2015 due to several back injuries. Following two applications to join the games, her second attempt was a success - out of 500 candidates for Team Canada in the 2025 games, only 56 were chosen, and Melissa was among them.

Melissa proudly represented Team Canada in swimming, alpine skiing, and volleyball, standing out as the top Canadian female competitor in the 50-metre freestyle swimming event.

“We are honoured to recognize Melissa's outstanding achievements at the 2025 Invictus Games and to celebrate her inspiring journey of resilience. Ms. Henderson demonstrated her exceptional skills in swimming, alpine skiing, and volleyball, emerging as a leading female athlete for Canada. On behalf of Council and the Severn community, we extend our warmest congratulations.”
- Mayor Mike Burkett

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