The Crash Reel comes to life: Kevin Pearce talks recovery and resilience in Park City

Kevin Pearce will speak on life, and the shift traumatic injuries have on it's path at the Santy on April 7. Photo: Courtesy of Live Like Sam

PARK CITY, Utah — Park City Film, in partnership with Live Like Sam, will host Kevin Pearce, a former professional snowboarder and traumatic brain injury survivor, on Thursday, April 11, at 7 p.m. at the Jim Santy Auditorium.

Pearce, who was training for the 2009 Winter Olympics at Park City Mountain when he suffered a life-altering injury, will share his journey of recovery and adaptation over the past decade.

The live event will feature a passionate presentation by Pearce including segments from the HBO documentary “The Crash Reel,” which chronicles Pearce’s accident, recovery, and the subsequent shift in his life’s direction. Pearce will also discuss the challenges he faced during his recovery, the process of reevaluating his life goals, and how he has worked towards health and fulfillment despite his injury.

“Far too often, we lose our identity when we lose that which we’re most passionate about. It’s so common for athletes to go down the rabbit hole when they lose their ability to participate,” said Ron Jackenthal, founder of Live Like Sam. “Kevin’s story is incredibly inspiring. Many people don’t come back from a life changing injury like that, whether it be mentally, emotionally, physically or spiritually. Every one of us will face adversity at some point in our lives. Kevin’s story is one of resilience and self love.”

Pearce’s story is one of resilience, highlighting the human capacity to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. His experience is particularly relevant for individuals dealing with traumatic brain injuries, as well as for the broader community, by providing insight into the recovery process and the importance of support systems.

“As a parent of an elite athlete who suffered his fair share of injuries and setbacks, including an injury that ultimately took his life, I have deep respect for the journey that any athlete or human has had to come back from something like that,” Jackenthal said. “It takes incredible will, determination, and self love to put the time, energy, and faith that you can to reclaim your place and in the world.”

This presentation is being organized in partnership with the Live Like Sam Foundation as part of the Reel Community Series. The foundation is known for its work in promoting well-being, character, and resilience among all youth in the greater Park City area, and has a commitment to bringing impactful speakers to the community at large as it relates to mental health emotional performance.

Ticket proceeds from the event, priced at $8-10, will benefit the Live Like Sam Foundation, supporting its mission to foster a sense of community, resilience, and growth.

For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchase on the Park City Film website.