Photo credit: RickHansenFoundation | Flickr

Twenty-five years ago, Rick Hansen made his way around the world: in a wheelchair.

Left paralyzed below the waist after a childhood car accident, Hansen set out from Vancouver in 1987.  He logged more than 40,000 kilometers in 34 countries in his epic two-year odyssey, raising $26 million for spinal cord research in the process.

This year, Hansen – a dedicated activist who has since raised more than $250 million – has been busy commemorating the 25^th anniversary of his original tour with trips around the world.

Now, he’s about to return to Vancouver for an all-star concert.  On May 22, the 25^th anniversary of his original homecoming, Hansen hosts Rick Hansen Celebration 25 in Vancouver’s historic Pacific Coliseum.

Canadian legends including Grammy-winning singer Sarah McLachlan, classical heartthrobs The Canadian Tenors and Juno-nominated Canadian pop band Marianas Trench are set to rock the stage.

Photo credit: Tony Felgueiras | Flickr

Also expect appearances from environmental activist and Canadian icon David Suzuki and, of course, the Man in Motion himself, Rick Hansen.

Tickets for Rick Hansen Celebration 25 start at $25.  For more information, visit the Rick Hansen Foundation website.