Walk for Dialysis slated for September 22nd

News Release
Riverside Foundation

On September 22nd at 8:00 AM, Tom Bruyere will once again make the 20-mile trek for Dialysis that he started back in the year 2000. What started as a one-man millennium event to raise two thousand dollars and awareness about the need for Dialysis in the Rainy River district has become an annual walk that has raised more than sixty thousand dollars in the past six years. It has also attracted many individuals from across the district that joined in to raise funds for this worthwhile cause. This year, Jackie Lampi- Hughes of Energy Fitness Centre is encouraging people to take part for the health of it. “It’s an awesome physical challenge that has the added benefit of helping a local cause”, she noted. “I did it last year and it felt great...I can’t wait to do it again this year”, she enthused. Once again this year, Richard Visser will be walking in memory of his wife, Metta who was a strong advocate for Dialysis in the Rainy River district. “Metta cut the ribbon at the opening of the Hemo Dialysis Unit at La Verendrye Hospital”, noted Tom Bruyere. “Unfortunately, she succumbed to her disease in 2001 and the Walk has been in her memory ever since”, he added. Anyone can participate in the walk by either making a pledge or collecting their own pledges and walking the 20 miles. All donors and participants are also eligible to win great prizes!!! North Air Taxi will be providing a complimentary limo service to bring the walkers to the starting point, which is 20 miles west of Fort Frances on the River Road. Pick-up will be at North American Lumber at 7:15 AM. For those who drive to the starting point, a shuttle service will be available to get vehicles back to North American Lumber. Snacks and refreshments will also be available along the way. All walkers will arrive at North American Lumber where hot dogs and refreshments will be served courtesy of The Place Fine Foods and McDonald’s Restaurant. Community members are invited to North American Lumber to greet the walkers between 1:30 and 2:00 PM. All proceeds from the walk will be put toward the Hemo Dialysis Unit at La Verendrye Hospital through Riverside Foundation for Health Care. The Foundation administers the charitable receipts for all donations and pledges and also assists with the preparations. “Tom puts a lot of effort into making this walk a success and he has great support from people across the district. I believe he does it because he cares about making a difference locally”, noted Teresa Hazel, Foundation Director. “We are extremely grateful to Tom and the many supporters who contribute to this annual event”. Anyone wishing to participate in this year’s walk can pick-up a pledge form at Energy Fitness Centre, or contact Tom Bruyere at 274-6221 or Teresa Hazel at 274-4803. All pledges and donations over $10.00 are tax deductible.