Fundraising Walk to Continue

A fundraising walk started eight years ago by a Fort Frances man will continue this year.

Tom Bruyere died suddenly late last month, but Riverside Foundation for Health Care, along with Bruyere's family and friends felt it important his efforts continue.

Foundation Director Teresa Hazel says this year the walk will be called Tom Bruyere Memorial 20-Mile Walk for Dialysis.

"When he first started we didn't have dialysis here," says Hazel. "Once we had it here, it was important to him that it stay locally, it be used locally and be used by local residents. So we're going to keep that in mind with this walk."

Bruyere helped raise over 100-thousand dollars for dialysis in the Rainy River district through the walks.

This year's event will occur September 18.

Anyone can participate in the walk by either making a pledge or collecting their own pledges and walking whatever distance they can along 20-mile route.

"We’re encouraging people to start at the 20-mile marker or join us anywhere along the route."

North Air Taxi is providing a complimentary limo service to bring the walkers to the starting point, which is 20 miles west of Fort Frances on the River Road. Pick-up will be at North American Lumber at 7:15 AM.

The walk will end at North American Lumber where hot dogs and refreshments will be served courtesy of The Place Fine Foods.

Richard Visser will walk this year in memory of his wife, Metta and now his friend Tom who were both strong advocates for Dialysis in the Rainy River district.

“I enjoyed walking with Tom. He helped bring a lot of awareness about the need for Dialysis in the Rainy River district,” says Visser.

All proceeds from the walk will be used locally and put toward the Renal Dialysis Program at La Verendrye Hospital. Riverside Foundation for Health Care will issue charitable receipts for all donations and pledges of $20 or more. All those who make pledges and/or participate in the walk will be eligible to win prizes.