My father and I are bicycling across Canada this summer. We hope to raise some money and awareness for Amnesty International (AI).
AI is a worldwide movement dedicated to the protection and promotion of human rights. AI takes action to stop grave abuses of the rights to physical and mental integrity, freedom of conscience and expression, and freedom from discrimination. We campaign to free prisoners of conscience, protect refugees, abolish the death penalty, and end political killings, "disappearances" and torture. AI seeks to expose human rights abuses accurately and quickly. We systematically and independently research the facts of individual cases and pattens of human rights abuses. These findings are publicized, and members, supporters and staff then mobilize persistent public pressure on governments, armed political groups, companies and others to prevent and stop these violations.
An ancient Japanese legend states that anyone who folds 1,000 origami cranes will be granted a wish. This legend was popularized by Sadako Sasaki, a Japanese girl who contracted leukemia as a direct result from the atomic bombing at Hiroshima. She died after folding 600 cranes. Today, tens of millions of cranes are folded in that country and others every year. These symbols have come to represent hope for a better world. I have folded 1,000 cranes and we will give these out in exchange for donations.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

The Feat


Well, we are pretty proud of ourselves today! Yes. those are our feet with the Fraser River behind them. In the last few days I have reflected a bit and come to know that we are privileged to have made this trip when most in the world cannot. I am thinking especially of the thousands of refugees around the world who must leave their homes, driven by chaotic rule or bad government. Their only journey, a search of survival. We can afford to take 3 months from work, when millions live in poverty. And we can voice our opinions, and sometimes silly comments, when others are imprisoned for doing so. Amnesty International helps thousands of impoverished and imprisoned, those without a voice and those struggling to gain their dignity. We want to thank everyone we met, who fed us, housed us and gave us donations and encouragement along the way. We entrust AI to use this money where it is needed the most. Here in Vancouver, thanks to Laurie and Don for letting us use their beautiful house while they are in Ontario. We're watching the log booms being maneuvered up the Fraser River, from their patio!
But this adventure is not over yet! We want to invite everyone, old friends and new, to a giant BBQ at our house! Watch here for the date! This will be one last fundraising, ginormous kick at the can to raise our total. In fact, I think we should light the BBQ right under that crazy thermometre that the AI donation page has assigned us, and watch the mercury climb, OK?

Tomorrow, we're going to Nanaimo to eat one of their famous eponymous bars. (look it up)
Posted by at

6 comments:

  1. Beth AnneAugust 26, 2009 at 10:59 PM

    Have been following your trip since you went through Quebec, missed seeing you there as you guys took one road and Dad and I took another. Was looking forward to wave to some 'fellow bikers'. Sounds like you guys had one awesome summer vacation. Will look forward to the BBQ when you get home and all the stories. Tucker, you gonna make it back in time for the first day of school or are you gonna rest up first?

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousAugust 27, 2009 at 9:09 PM

    Congratulations....Well done...Enjoy Vancouver Island and we will spread the word when you return for the biggest BBQ that Pinehurst has ever seen.....the granthams....

    ReplyDelete
  3. Pam KAugust 28, 2009 at 3:18 AM

    Absolutely awesome guys! Congratulations! I hope I am home for the celebrations! Bob, Rick and I are in Vancouver untill sept 6th. Where from and when are you flying home? we are on west 7th ave if there is a possibility of breaking bread with you and Tucker. let me know what your plans are..if we can arrange something we will!.....Pam and Rick

    ReplyDelete
  4. Alex NeveAugust 28, 2009 at 5:13 PM

    Well done! Bravo! I am in awe of your cycling talents and unflagging energy. I'm also very jealous of some of the wonderful cross-Canada moments you experienced. And of course I'm so grateful for your deep commitment to human rights. Have a safe trip home. Alex Neve

    ReplyDelete
  5. AnonymousAugust 30, 2009 at 5:59 PM

    Way to go Bob and Tucker; can't wait to hear all about your trip in more detail. Take care on your way home, see you soon,
    Maxine, Sullee, Blake, Tigger, PoohBear, and Toby

    ReplyDelete
  6. TayylorrrAugust 31, 2009 at 10:20 PM

    i am loving that flip flop tan. you did better than anyone i've seen this summer. : )
    i'm super happy for you guys. you can expect me at this barbeque, of course.
    can't wait to see you guys! yay! : D

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)