Sudbury is revving its engine and is primed to cruise for organ donors.
The first Cruisin' For Organ Donors and Rich event is happening June 12 at 3 p.m. All sorts of classic cars and motorcycles will make their way from École secondaire Sacre Coeur on Notre Dame to the parking lot at Costco. But first, participants will follow a course that will take them up Elm Street, onto Elgin, then Paris to Regent, down to Lorne, back to Elm and straight on to The Kingsway.
The event is being organized by Bob Johnston and Ward 3 coun. Gerry Montpellier.
Six and a half months ago, Johnston had a kidney transplant. It went so well, he said, that he now wants to pay it forward. Rich Griffin's name has been added to the event because he was an organ donor, and he saved five people's lives.
“We're looking to raise awareness of organ donations, and we're hoping everyone in Sudbury hits the sidewalks to watch a beautiful car and bike show,” Johnston said. “We also want to raise money for patients who are awaiting transplants. We are hoping to bring together the community so that one day, we're No. 1 for the most residents as registered donors in Ontario.”
Rich Griffin's wife, Nancy, said she's honoured to take part in Cruisin' For Organ Donors. It will be the perfect opportunity to show off Rich's 1984 Cutlass Supreme Brougham.
“Rich really loved that Cutlass, so it's really an honour to be included in this event,” Nancy said. “He would have thought it was great. The fact this event is raising awareness and money for organ donation patients is a perfect fit.
“I'm really looking forward to it, it's going to be a lot of fun. Rich loved showing off his car, and if I don't get it out in events like this, it will just sit in the garage.”
Johnston is confident Sudbury will support the event.
“I know this community will step up to the plate and register as an organ donor,” he said.
Anyone wanting to be part of the cruise can call Johnston at 705-918-9215 or Gerry Montpellier at 705-855-9363.
Click here for more information. entertainmentsudbury.com/blog/cruising-for-organ-donors-rich-2
