Follow Ramesh's Journey

Today, the team was able to participate in spectacular Canada Day celebrations here in Thunder Bay, Ontario. While I’m 28 years old, today was my 25th Canada Day. The morning started with a scrumptious breakfast at the Reverend Nancy and Bill Ringham’s house. Supporters from various churches, Rotary clubs, the Thunder Bay Cycling Club, and other members of the community accompanied me for the cycle in to Thunder Bay. That hearty breakfast sure came in handy!

There is so much support for Cycle to Walk here in Thunder Bay. As we approached the city, there were many honks, and bystanders cheered at the side of the road. I’d like to thank the Thunder Bay Police Service for ensuring the safety of everyone who participated in today’s cycle.
Immediately after the ride in to town, we entered a packed room of people anxiously awaiting the annual Rotary house draw. Thanks to Joan Krisko and all of the Rotary Clubs who ensured that Cycle to Walk was prominently featured. It was wonderful to be able to share the message of Cycle to Walk at such an exciting community event, and it was great to meet Mayor Lynn Peterson!
The Canada Day excitement continued as Cycle to Walk and the local Rotary Clubs of Thunder Bay participated in the Canada Day Parade to Marina Park. Dr. Allon Reddoch, Carly and Chris gave out wrist bands, Doug drove the SUV, and Bertha danced away to the Cycle to Walk theme song which played inside the RV on repeat.

After the parade, I was invited to the main stage at Marina Park to talk about polio and the Cycle to Walk campaign. It was the largest number of people I’ve spoken with to date. As I see the momentum and excitement building for the campaign, my personal excitement, energy and commitment to the goal of a polio-free world only grows stronger. People came to our tent throughout the evening to give donations, buy t-shirts, and paint their pinkies purple in support of polio eradication.
The campaign’s momentum continues to grow, and people are rallying together across this great country to make Cycle to Walk’s message heard even louder. Thanks to everyone in both Whitehorse and Thunder Bay for participating in Cycle to Walk activities today. We truly are sending a message to Canada and to the rest of the world that we can and we will be polio free.