September 30, 2009
Many of us are all too familiar with the devastating impact Cancer can have on a family. For those loved ones lost and those whose battle continues, BC Ambulance Service (BCAS) members are determined to make a difference. This fall, five BCAS paramedics will have an opportunity to do just that when they will test their endurance as part of the Cops for Cancer Tours. Thanks to their commitment to past Tours, BCAS paramedics have once again been invited to participate as Tour Riders on the Tour de Coast, Tour de Valley and Tour de North teams, during which time they will ride alongside law enforcement colleagues and provide medical escort for this worthwhile cause. Following are profiles of our Tour Riders, including the personal stories and experiences that drove them to get involved.
Tour de Coast: September 23- October 1
Chris Hui ($1,035.00 raised)
"Having volunteered at Camp Goodtimes for 10 years, a program that provides a unique summer experience for children and teens with Cancer, I have seen first hand what camp is able to do for these children. Campers have shared with me how hard it was to fit in at school after losing all their hair and how they didn't get to be a child because they were too sick from their treatments. At Camp Goodtimes, these same children smile, share a good laugh and enjoy activities. I am honoured to support this program and to be part of this amazing tour."
Bob Lee ($2,000.25 raised)
"Giving back is an important concept to me as a BCAS paramedic/emergency dispatcher. I have seen the effects and the various stages of Cancer on the young and on the old. It is amazing how the human spirit rises to the occasion; the fight, the challenge to conquer this devastating disease. I would like to give back and support those individuals who have fought and continue to fight."
Tom Venables ($8,120.26 raised)
Tom Venables has far surpassed his required fundraising goal of $6,000 and is aiming to raise an additional $4,000 this year. Contributing to this impressive fundraising total was a night of entertainment and art hosted by Tom and co-rider Buzz Whalen of the RCMP this fall, where supporters were treated to performances from belly dancers, aerialists and martial artists. On display were beautiful photos from various riders including Tom's own work.
Tour de Valley: September 24 - October 2
Brian Thornburn ($3,488.51 raised)
"I have worked with and helped care for many sick children over the course of my career. As a father of two young children, the toughest part has been hearing about the helplessness a parent feels when their child is sick; the most inspiring to see how incredibly tough a child can be when fighting for their life. I have seen children both win and lose this battle, which has motivated me to spend many hours in the saddle to be fit and ready to ride in the Tour. I am proud to be joining the Cops for Cancer Tour de Valley team for my second year."
Tour de North: September 11- 17
Terry Mitchell ($4,000.00 raised)
"It has been almost four years since I lost my Mom to Cancer and that's when I personally committed to getting involved and making a difference. This summer, I had the privilege of visiting Camp Goodtimes. I feel lucky to have met these kids and am re-energized by their appreciation of what we do for them. I also see now that although many of the riders, including me, ride with the memories of a loved one lost to Cancer, the kids at Camp Goodtimes should be enough incentive for any of us to continue our efforts to make the Camp possible. Thanks to all those who have supported the 2009 Tour and a special thanks to Jacqui Ward for volunteering to drive our escort ambulance."
Tour de Rock: September 19- October 2
While not serving as Tour Riders, BCAS members are also supporting the Tour de Rock. Victoria Jubilee paramedics Tyrone Trotter and Bonnie Lunn will drive the ambulance that will be escorting the Tour and paramedics from across the Island are also rallying together to fundraise for the initiative.
Congratulations to all BCAS Tour Riders and the many BCAS employees who have supported the Cops for Cancer Tours this year.
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