James Hektner

With nearly three decades of personal experience following a motor vehicle accident in 1997 resulting in a T-6, AIS-A injury, James brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge to his work.

Within Praxis, James is dedicated to fortifying the connections between the community, research initiatives, and healthcare systems. Through strategic engagement, educational outreach, and committed support, he endeavors to foster collaborative partnerships that are instrumental in advancing health outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with SCI. Currently, James is deeply engaged in collaborative efforts with community clinicians and researchers aimed at knowledge dissemination, confidence-building, and addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals with SCI.

Beyond his role at Praxis, James demonstrates exemplary leadership as the President & Co-founder of Accessible Okanagan, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering individuals with diverse abilities to achieve their full potential. Accessible Okanagan facilitates inclusive opportunities, such as camping, fishing, and recreational events, designed to enrich the lives of those within the SCI community. James’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the quality of life and fostering an active and inclusive community environment is evident in every initiative undertaken by Accessible Okanagan.

James’s professional interests extend to a wide array of research areas, including the promotion of peer support networks, innovation in mobility devices, and the exploration of physical activities such as hand cycling and waterskiing. He is also passionate about fostering network development within the SCI community. Looking ahead, James is driven by a noble aspiration to support and advocate for peer programs, SCI health initiatives, and rehabilitation development in his community, provincially, nationally, and internationally, particularly in low and middle-income countries.