Follow Ramesh's Journey

Well, after our wonderful overnight stay in Barrie’s Roberta Place Retirement Lodge, I must say I’m now looking forward to my own retirement! Rotarian Alex Jarlette kindly arranged accommodations for the entire team, and it was a great experience. We each had wonderfully-furnished, clean and spacious rooms, and everyone welcomed us with open arms, happy to learn about Cycle to Walk. I gave a presentation to the residents this morning, and afterwards, many people came and shared stories about how polio had touched their own lives. People in my generation really have no comprehension about living life in fear of polio.

One resident told us about how her sister was playing in a park one day and just collapsed. She was carried away from the playground, was diagnosed with polio, and never walked again. The local A Channel heard of our visit and came over to conduct interviews. To all the residents and staff: it was a true delight to spend time with all of you. Thank you for your kindness, donations, and support.

Later in the day I went through my personal belongings to organize a shipment of stuff to go back to Whitehorse. It’s unbelievable how fast the time is going. The team is quite excited for the next couple of days, as we have some great opportunities to discuss polio eradication, education and rehabilitation lined up in the Toronto area. We arrived at the University of Toronto in the afternoon and the team met up with Bertha’s brother John shortly after, and enjoyed a meal with him his partner Jenn, and his two sons Shawn and Kevin at their home. Thanks to Wycliffe College for opening up their residences to the team over the next couple of days. It’s great to have a comfortable, central place to stay while we are in the Toronto area.