Wheelin’ for a cause

CORNWALL, Ontario – With nothing but blue skies and sunny weather, locals came out in droves to support the Children’s Treatment Centre in their local Bike-A-Thon+ event.

With a tug-of-war being added to this year’s agenda, Bike-A-Thon Co-chair, Caroline Lassier says that the new event has helped keep people around a little longer.

“We’re aiming for another record year,” said Lassier . “But we’re very lucky for the great weather we got today – that’s really what makes it all happen.”

With walking, cycling, and wheelchair events on the docket, folks were also free to enjoy the pancake breakfast and barbecue lunch.

Peter Asquini, who is Chair of the Bike-a- thon , says that the event is ‘critically important’ to the Children’s Treatment Centre, as they receive no government funding.

“Without the help of the Bike-A-Thon Plus, the services at the centre would have to be severely curtailed,” said Asquini. “We rely strictly on the donations from the community to support clinical services that are delivered.”

Having raised over $150,000 at last year’s event, Asquini and Lassier say they’re aiming for another record year.

“We’ve got our fingers crossed that this year will be equal to, if not, better than last year,” said Asquini.

The event featured a wide range of activities for kids, including pony rides and face painting.

“Hopefully we introduce younger generations to the important work that Children’s Treatment Centre does, and as they get older, maybe want to get more involved in the community,” said Asquini.