Don Wells began his latest fundraising journey last week with a simple message.
“My days are limited so I’m going to do the best I can.”
The cancer survivor left the Walpole Island arena on his 77th birthday bound for Ottawa to raise awareness and money for children battling cancer on what he said will be his last effort to give back to the community.
His plan was to ride a motorized scooter for the 700-kilometre trip to Ottawa where he was to be met by officials from the Children’s Make a Wish Foundation.
Conflicting media reports stated late last week that he had made it to Ottawa, but also had to pull the scooters off the road due to extreme heat. The Voice has been unable to reach Wells for an update.
Companion Bob Duquette, who drove a motor home the group was to stay in during the trip, said he’s involved because “it’s all about the kids. If you see what those kids go through, it’s enough to make you cry.”
Bob’s son James also drove a scooter to provide Wells with some companionship on the road.
“I’m in my second remission with lung cancer,” he said. “I’m thankful that I can still help out.”
Wells said he doesn’t have a fundraising goal for the event. “I used to get out and work harder at fundraising but even though my PSA level is down right now, the radiation has kept my energy level low.”
Wells has battled bladder and prostate cancer for more than a decade and has crossed parts of Ontario and British Columbia several times in his “Journey of Hope” events.
“It seems like every time I think it’s my last journey, but God has other plans for me.” he said. “As long as I have health, I’ll try to keep going, but I have to be realistic.”
He said he started his trip from Walpole Island due to his many close friends in the community.
“I’ve spent many years with my friends on Walpole Island. I was vice president of minor hockey here for a couple of years and was involved in the Little NHL. You won’t find people anywhere who have a bigger heart,” he said.
The community recently held an Indian Taco fundraiser, which raised $1,200. He has raised $5,000 so far and encourages anyone who wants to help to donate through the Children’s Health Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
“Just let them know you’re donating to help the Journey of Hope,” he said.
It’s expected that the trip will take 12 to 15 days although there isn’t any firm timetable.
“We’re travelling the back roads and we could be limited by the heat and bad weather,” he said. “I’ll do the best that I can.”
Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP Dave Epp was on hand for Wells’ departure.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to encourage and support those who give back. It’s a part of the fabric of our community,” he said.
