'Adding life to days'

Jean Cousineau's mother spend her last days at the hospice. While it was a difficult time, Cousineau said the facility made the end of her life much more comfortable.

“Death is another step in the life cycle,” he said, reflecting back on his mother's passing in 2008. Instead of adding days to life, Cousineau said he was thrilled the hospice dedicated so much time to “adding life to days.”

In recognition of what the hospice did for him and his family, Cousineau decided to give back. What started as an idea has turned into an annual event that has brought in as much as $20,000 for the hospice. On Aug. 19, organizers of the Desjardins Wheels for Hospice said this year's fundraising goal was $25,000. Even before the event began, some $20,000 had been collected, Jennifer Grooms said. The marketing co-ordinator at the Maison Vale Hospice said all the funds raised at the event go directly to covering operating costs. 

“The community is so gracious to fund what we need every year,” she said. 

About 150 people took part in the fundraising ride, which included a 134-kilometre route around the city, with various activities taking place at various checkpoints.  The event is supported by the Sudbury branch of the Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers. 

Another route was set up for cyclists around the lake. 

For more information about Wheels for Hospice, email [email protected], phone 705-674-9252 or visit www.maisonsudburyhospice.org.