A group of private pilots took to the air on Saturday to raise funds for cancer, as well as to pay tribute to the memory of a good friend and fellow pilot, Rheal Roy.
The group of nine pilots put a unique spin on a common fundraiser, making their way by float plane to five lakes in the Greater Sudbury area on a poker run. Their second annual event, called Flying for a Cause, included a departure from Onaping Lake with stops at Kukagami Lake, Trout Lake, Long Lake and Panache Lake.
Home and camp owners on each of the lakes hosted the planes for
the day, offering them a place to dock their plane while they
enjoyed some snacks and refreshments.
Only two weeks prior to the event, the organizing committee hit the streets campaigning for pledges for the Canadian Cancer Society Pediatric Care.
"We wanted to do it for the kids," said Ray Roy, son of Rheal.
"We feel very fortunate that we're healthy and able to fly," added Harold Shirley, flight organizer for the day's event. "We want to help those who aren't so fortunate. Pediatrics fit the bill."
All participants, including pilots, flight crews and hosts, also had an opportunity to place bets on a silent auction throughout the day at each of the stops, adding to the donation.
At the end of the day, the group had raised more than $15,000.
However, their fundraising is not yet complete. The group will continue to fundraise until Sunday, making the donation to the Cancer Society next week.
Donations can made at the Canadian Cancer Society, specifically for Flying for a Cause, at Roy's Furniture, located at 138 Elm St., or at Roy's Furniture Gallery at 135 Durham St. in Sudbury.
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