Musician Errol Ranville is making headway in his recovery after a devastating car accident outside The Pas last October that took the lives of five people, including his wife.
Ranville, a well-known musician and songwriter in the aboriginal community, suffered fractures to his sternum and serious injuries to his legs and ankles and it was initially unclear whether he would survive. He spoke to the media Friday for the first time about his progress.
"Physically, I'm still in a lot of pain … (in the morning) I get up and put my feet off the bed, the pain is instant and I usually can't get walking for about 15 minutes," he said.
Ranville was at Health Sciences Centre for 62 days, undergoing several surgeries and physical therapy sessions. He is now continuing his daily therapy at home. He credits the support of his family for helping him through his recovery.
Beyond the physical pain is the emotional pain that still lingers, as Ranville mourns the loss of his wife Marcie.
"We were soul mates. We were more than husband and wife. We were very close, extremely close," he told media.
Ranville said he is finding some peace by mentoring a new generation of musical talent. Budding aboriginal artist Ali Fontaine, 16, brought songs and music to Ranville to get his input.
Her career is now his new inspiration and focus.
"She's completely lifted me out of any remaining depression, just by her parents coming forward to me for help," he said.
Many would like to see Ranville start performing again. But, he says, until he gets better, he will not be on the stage. He'll be doing what he and his wife were doing before she died-- nurturing the next generation of Manitoba musicians.
-- with a report from CTV's Eleanor Coopsammy
