Ramesh Ferris

Cycle to Walk aims to raise funds and awareness to forward the global eradication of polio, to educate about the continuing need for immunization against polio and to support the rehabilitation of polio survivors in poor countries.

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Day 60 - Austin, Manitoba - 75 km

by Ramesh Ferris, posted in Road Updates - Tue, June 10, 2008

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This morning, as I looked through the Brandon Sun, I was thrilled to see that the Cycle to Walk campaign received news coverage on page 2. Linda, one of our wonderful hosts in Brandon, has been so great to us while we’ve been in town. This morning, she had fresh cinnamon buns ready for the whole team before we left. Linda, your hospitality and support have been wonderful, and the whole team looks forward to meeting up with you again next Monday at the Post Polio Network Manitoba barbecue in Winnipeg. I’m in awe of the number of people we meet across the country who have been affected by polio - both directly and indirectly. It’s a learning opportunity for me to see how people like Linda manage with the effects of polio, and it’s inspiring to meet people such as her.

The team also picked up a copy of the Anglican Journal this morning, and we were all excited to see that Cycle to Walk was the feature story this month. The Anglican Bishop for the Diocese of Brandon, The Right Reverend Jim Njegovan wished the team well as we left the Synod Office.

Early in the day we crossed paths with two sisters, Meghan and Joanna, who are biking from Whistler to Calgary. This is the third time we’ve run in to one another. It was great to see you both again on the road today, and I wish you safe travels! Progressing towards Austin, two young girls stopped at the side of the road with their mother to make a donation and wish the team well. I find it so encouraging to see young people showing an interest in learning about polio. Many young Canadians have no idea what polio is and how it can affect one’s life. Cycle to Walk is successfully meeting its goal by increasing awareness and educating young Canadians such as Layne and Alexis about polio. Thanks for supporting Cycle to Walk!

The weather was mainly sunny for the most part of the day, but headwinds were constant and, at times, very frustrating. However, when I can make connections with young Canadians and educate them about polio, the winds seem a little lighter.

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