Mark John DeMontis is one of Canada’s youngest motivational speakers. At only age 22 he continues to tell his inspiring story to people all across the nation. Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, this 5’8” high school student found himself in the Hospital for Sick Children undergoing numerous tests and examinations weeks before his senior year began. During this period, Mark was diagnosed with a rare condition known as Leber's Optic Neuropathy, an optic disease which left him legally blind. As a result he has no central sight and can now only rely on his peripheral vision, which includes shapes and shadows and a minor ability to capture details, including: colour, depth perception and the overall differentiation of people and objects. Mark’s story is compelling because, before his diagnosis, he was a multi-talented individual looking forward to a remarkable future in both sports and academics.

Courage Canada – Hockey for the Blind Inc. is a national non-profit organization registered with the Federal Government of Canada. The organization was founded in 2008 by Mark DeMontis.

Courage Canada looks to introduce the game of blind hockey to blind youth across Canada by starting hockey schools in major cities across Canada. These hockey schools will teach kids the basic fundamentals of skating and playing hockey through Learn to Skate Programs and Skills Development Camps.

Whether or not a child in Canada is with or without sight, he or she should be given the chance to learn and love our nation’s game.

Mark set off on his incredible journey Sat. June 27, 2009 from his hometown of Weston, Ont., and Weston Lions Arena, cheered on by family, friends and supporters like the legendary Herbert Carnegie and rising star, PK Subban. Plus, well wishers like hockey greats Johnny Bower, Ron Ellis, Frank Mahovlich, Doug Gilmour and Walter Gretzky too. It was a touching & moving send-off for this 22yr old athlete who lost his sight at 17yrs of age.