A couple from Vernon, B.C. is halfway through a cross-country triathlon campaign, with their ninth stop in Stettler on July 13.
Donna Bartel and Mike Pearson are part of what’s called “Tri’ing to End ALS” — to raise awareness and support for those living with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
While taking part in the Stettler Triathlon, they said the event’s race director helped promote their campaign online, and the announcers shared their message at the finish line.
The cause is personal. Bartel’s mother, Marilyn, was diagnosed with ALS in 1999.
All funds raised are split evenly between two priorities. Fifty per cent supports Project Hope, a clinical ALS research initiative based at the University of British Columbia.
The remainder goes towards helping patients access urgently needed equipment and mobility aids. Bartel and Pearson are covering the full cost of the trip themselves.
Next, the couple will travel to Nunavut, followed by Manitoba, Quebec, and the Atlantic provinces. They expect to complete the final triathlon in Cultus Lake in mid-September.
According to their website, they’ve raised $30,000 so far at the halfway point of their triathlon journey.
More information about the campaign and donation links can be found at triingtoendals.ca.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
