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My warmest thanks to the 150+ people who so very
kindly supported my goal during the summer of 2004 to raise funds for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, through my participation
in the “Paddle To A Cure - Journey of Hope” in memory of my mother, Noel. And my thanks to Belinda Clemmensen, all the volunteers
who created Paddle To A Cure, and all the guides and participants on our trip.
The incredible response from friends, family,
and co-workers all around the world enabled me to raise $17,000 all of which goes towards the work being done on finding a
cure for breast cancer, as well as gaining knowledge on prevention, earlier detection, and programs to support those affected
by breast cancer.
Our kayak trip in the BC Gulf Islands early in August 2004 was a wonderful journey, bringing together
10 participants and 4 guides, for five days of paddling, camping, sharing of experiences, laughter and tears. Our participants
came from Vancouver Island, Vancouver, Ontario and UK; some having done major kayaking expeditions, others with just a few
days of paddling 'under their PFDs' and some anxiety about the water conditions we might encounter.
We came together almost
all as strangers to each other, with the common goal of making a difference in the fight against breast cancer, and a shared
love of the outdoors. We left as 14 friends with an eternal bond between us, a greater understanding of the challenges that
breast cancer delivers to different people, and the assurance that everyone can make a difference in some way.
At the conclusion
of our trip, we had seen not only proof that difficult waters can be mastered with the help and guidance of friends, but had
reinforced the knowledge that with the support and love of those around us, we can brave any difficult waters that we may
face in life.
The following photos show just a fraction of the wonderful fun and friendships we experienced during our
Paddle To A Cure - Journey of Hope, although there are no words or pictures that come anywhere close to expressing the power,
emotion, and memories of our journey.
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