“When I first came across the news of Matt Hadley’s accident, I was deeply moved and immediately curious about the person behind the headlines—not just because we both hail from a small mountain town, but because the tragedy he overcame spoke to something profound: the ability to reclaim life after loss. Matt didn’t just survive; he redefined what it means to thrive as an adaptive athlete. His story of rebuilding, rediscovery, and community sparked something in me—a desire to understand and to share it.

As someone who has dealt with sports-related injuries, I know the ache of being sidelined from the things that give your life meaning. But what Matt has faced—and how he’s responded—redefines resilience. His decision to adapt rather than retreat resonated deeply with me. I was honoured when he trusted me to help share his story.

Trailblazing began as a portrait of possibility in the face of adversity. But it quickly became something more: a lens through which to examine how people with disabilities and accessibility challenges shape and strengthen mountain culture. The film sheds light on the physical and societal barriers that persist, and the courage, creativity, and support systems needed to break through them.

What struck me most was how few people knew Matt’s name, despite how much he has shaped the way we explore the outdoors. He is a Canmore legend—an engineer of trails, a quiet innovator, and a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets persistence. Honouring his legacy became a driving force behind this project.

As my first major documentary, Trailblazing pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. We battled unpredictable weather, remote locations, and the delicate emotional terrain of revisiting trauma with Matt and his family. But those challenges only strengthened my conviction. Our small, Alberta-based crew brought empathy, grit, and heart to every frame, and I’m deeply proud of what we created together.

At its core, Trailblazing is not just about one man’s comeback. It’s about how we respond when everything changes. It’s a tribute to resilience, reinvention, and the quiet strength of community. I hope it helps us all see adversity differently—and move forward with more courage.”