It takes a big heart to ride a big bike, and this month dozens of residents from Nanaimo will prove they have just that by participating in the Heart and Stroke Big Bike Campaign.
An important fundraiser for heart and stroke research with impressive results, the Big Bike engages Canadians across the country. Last year, more than 40,000 riders, in 200 communities, helped to raise more than $7 million for research.
This helps the Heart and Stroke Foundation achieve even greater results that change the lives of not only heart and stroke patients, but all Canadians. The goal is to raise $1.6 million in B.C. this year.
Nanaimo’s Big Bike events take place June 16 at Rona, 1250 Island Hwy. in Chase River, and June 17 at Woodgrove Centre and seats are filling up quickly on the bicycle built for 30.
Last year, Nanaimo participants raised $35,700 and the goal this year is to increase that by $10,000.
“Money raised will help support community programs such as the Sip Smart Program, Vancouver Island’s Stroke Rapid Assessment Research, and help certify local teachers as HeartSmart instructors,” said Stephanie Crabtree, Nanaimo’s special events coordinator for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
To register a team or support the fundraising goals of the community teams by making a donation, please go to www.bigbike.ca.