Making a statement is something Gazette reporter Arnold Lim is used to, in terms of his photography and videography and more recently, with his writing.
Over the past couple of years, Lim has taken on new ways of demonstrating his thoughts and feelings on certain issues. Primarily, they’ve involved climbing on a bike and pedalling hundreds of kilometres, to raise funds and tell the stories of the challenges, hopes, fears and dreams of people battling life-threatening diseases and those who support them.
This summer, he committed a week of his time away from his family and his job – as did West Shore residents Andy Harward and Heather MacFayden and nine other Greater Victorians – to ride the ALS Cycle of Hope between Kamloops and Keremeos. That commitment to charity is not taken lightly by those of us in the media who often attempt to rally community support through stories and photographs.
Lim’s regular blog posts from this year’s ride (find them at bit.ly/1oKlDgu) have touched many a reader and strike at the heart of the painful, frustrating journey that is ALS. He’s kept a photographic record of the ride and its poignant moments on his Facebook page and left a permanent record for subsequent rides.
Diving in headfirst to such an initiative isn’t new for Lim. Last year, he was Black Press’ media rider on the Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock, a dedicated team of peace officers and a few others who train through the summer then ride the length of Vancouver Island come September, inspiring fundraising efforts in support of pediatric cancer patients.
As a parent with young children, Lim knows the importance of family and isn’t afraid to demonstrate that understanding. We applaud his heart and his willingness to literally go the extra mile to support others facing devastating life circumstances.
And with the 2014 Cycle of Hope now completed, we congratulate Heather, Andy and the other team riders for a job well done.
In a perfect world there would be no need for such projects. Since there is, we’re glad people like these folks are willing to take very public actions to support others in a time of need.