Tour de Rock is a huge gesture. It shows a great deal of sacrifice and commitment from the riders and support team as they navigate the Island spreading awareness and hope.
In the end it is not only the money they raise — which is still substantial, with Ladysmith alone raising usually $40,000 a year — it’s about the common uniting bind these riders represent.
They are able to take a disease that is so vast, so faceless and affects so many and turn it into event that gives us the chance to feel like we are making a difference.
As you read this, they are on the way — with local resident and Black Press reporter/photographer Chris Bush among them.
The adventurous riders left the north Island on Saturday and have been working their way down the coast stopping in towns for celebrations and information sessions as they go.
Be sure to check out www.ladysmithchronicle.com and click on our Tour de Rock section to keep up to date. Chris is also Tweeting and posting on his Facebook page from the road.
They will be in Ladysmith and Chemainus on Monday Oct. 3 and Tuesday Oct. 4 (see page 16 for more information).
The riders will be pulling over at the Tim Hortons around 2 p.m. on Oct. 3. around 2 p.m. before being given a hero’s parade up First Avenue towards the Ladysmith and District Credit Union where there will be a ceremony including a fundraising head shave.
Whether you want to donate, or get your head shaved, make sure you are there to show your support.
The more people lining the streets can prove to be a huge boost for the riders.
It may seem small, but it, too, is a huge gesture.