Winnipeggers Paddy Quiring and Walter Janzen made a stop in Sudbury on July 31 on their cross-Canada trip to raise funds for the Liver Foundation of Canada and Teen Challenge.
The pair set out on their journey from Stanley Park, BC, on April 13, the anniversary date of the death of Quiring's late husband, who passed away due to cirrhosis of the liver.
Quiring, 58, is no stranger to long distance treks, as she has completed numerous marathons, but this journey is a first for her.
"This is brand new to me to do something this big," said Quiring. "I've mostly been cycling, with some walking and running as well."
Janzen drives the support vehicle, a camper van, every kilometre of the way, which acts as a mobile donation centre and a place to stay most nights.
"We'll have people honk or wave or even stop when they drive by us," said Janzen. "They'll stop and make donations here and there, and the ones we collect on the road are to fund the trip for things like gas, or food or auto repairs."
The repairs fund was dipped into when the pair reached Sudbury as the vehicle's brakes started to give out when they rolled into the Nickel City.
"We kind of need brakes since I'm following her on the road," said Janzen. "If she stops I don't really want to run into her."
With the vehicle out of commission for a night, the pair needed a place to stay for the night. And thanks to a dose of Sudbury hospitality, the couple got a room at a very reasonable rate: free. The staff at the Homewood Suites opened their doors and gave the two a place to sleep at no charge.
"That hasn't happened very often on this trip," said Quiring. "We're given food and rooms the odd time. Sudbury has been really great, we were able to find a mechanic to look after the van and the Homewood gave us a place to stay. Overall, my first impression of Sudbury has been very good."
Janzen echoed Quiring's comments, saying he's driven through Sudbury on a few occasions, but never stopped in the city.
"For as much as you can gather about a place in one day, I'd say I'm really impressed," said Janzen. "It's a really nice city and all of the people here have been really friendly."
The two will hit the road and their next stop will be in North Bay in roughly three days, as they are working on a schedule of making stops twice per week, with the goal of covering 65 to 75 km per day.
Their journey will wrap up in North Sydney, N.S., on Sept. 22.
To find out more or for information on how to donate, visit www.rwalkthenation.ca.
