The smile of Oscar Dorval's face on our front page this week tells it all.
Despite the fact that this young lad is in the fight of his life - for the second time battling cancer - he was in a most happy place last Thursday night, hobnobbing with Sunshine Coast RCMP officers, firefighters and the community members who came out in force to support the annual Ladies Red Serge Gala for the Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast.
There are many worthy fundraising endevours that the Sunshine Coast community supports throughout the year, but the Ladies Gala is probably one that touches our heart the most.
Cancer is a deadly disease that has touched us all in some shape or form. Many battles have been won through devoted doctors and researches over the years and we are winning this battle, but there is still much to be conquered. That's why it is so heartwarming to see so many folks out supporting this amazing cause and helping kids like Oscar.
This year's riders Const. Kyle Hrynyk and Const. Harrison Mohr were on hand as was most of the RCMP detachment decked out in their finest red serge. Thanks to our community, more than $32,000 was raised - a staggering total and one we should all be proud of.
The Canadian Cancer Society's Cops for Cancer campaign is celebrating 15 years in B.C. and has raised $27 million since 1997.Cops for Cancer donations allow the Society to invest in pediatric cancer research. In addition, the Society is able to deliver information and operate support programs that improve the lives of children with cancer, survivors and their families - like Camp Goodtimes, the acclaimed summer camp at Loon Lake in Maple Ridge. Donations are also used to provide financial aid for travel, accommodation and cancer drugs.
The riders rolled up and down the Coast on Thursday, visiting area schools and spreading a message of hope to the young students. Over the years, the Sunshine Coast detachment has been a huge supporter of the ride, with many officers taking up the challenge.
This year is no different. Hrynyk and Mohr started their fundraising efforts in August with a 'rescue an officer' event in Davis Bay. When they started they didn't have a buddy this year to support in the ride, but they read about Oscar in Coast Reporter and their hearts melted. They knew they wanted to help and sought the little guy out. Needless to say, an instant connection was made and the two RCMP officers have worked extra hard to fundraise and prepare for the 900 km ride.
They have gone that extra mile and so too has our community. It's a nice thing to see.
