Follow Ramesh's Journey

Our hosts Mario and Lise cooked us an amazing breakfast this morning before we set forth once again on our Cycle to Walk journey. Signs that summer is ending are starting to creep up here and there: mornings are cool and the fall leaves are beginning to show their colours. We’re quickly approaching the month of September, and I’m noticing many vehicles packed full of belongings racing eastward. Students are returning to school.

As we enter the fall season and begin a new school year, it’s important that parents ensure their childrens’ immunizations are up to date. Many schools shut down or started late in the 1950s out of fear of the spread of polio. Young parents need to understand that Canada is not immune to the polio virus: we must ensure that everyone’s vaccines are up to date to protect not only ourselves, but the people around us.

Today’s hand cycle ended with the biggest climb I have ever had to do in my life. An 18-per-cent-grade hill stared down at us in Rivière-du-Loup. It was a tough climb! The hand cycle would roll backwards from time to time and it took all of my energy to get to the top. It doesn’t matter the size of the hill or type of weather: the message that we need to work together to eradicate polio must be heard by all Canadians.

The team drove into Cabano – a lovely community – where we were warmly greeted by Mayor Jacques Asselin and City Director Gilles Desrosiers. Mayor Asselin had the team sign the Golden Book of Cabano and he presented a book on the 100 year history of the town. To our surprise, Cycle to Walk Québec Route Champion Hélène Beaulieu’s parents – Conrad and Gisele – were there; Ray – the father of Hélène’s partner Stephan – came out as well. It was great to meet the family of someone who has been so integral to this leg of the campaign.

Thank you to everyone for taking the time to show your support for a polio-free world today. The people of Cabano generously donated three rooms for the team at the Motel Royal, which has a beautiful view of Lake Témiscouata. It’s wonderful to see the community of Cabano demonstrate its support for Cycle to Walk and a polio free world!