The countdown is on for a trio of cyclists who will pedal there way across Canada to raise awareness for mental health patients.
Charlie Fox, Jan Nilsson, and Gerry Owen's journey kicks off Monday and wraps up 7,000 kilometres later in St. John's N.L.
The entire ride is supposed to take until early August.
The trip, dubbed Ride into Light, is to highlight mental illness and its relationship with homelessness. The three men hope to remove the stigma attached to people suffering from mental health diseases like schizophrenia and depression.
They'll discuss personal encounters they've had with people struggling with mental illness and invite speakers in each community to discuss the topic.
The group of avid cyclists have been preparing for months with daily exercises, training sessions and major fundraising. The trip is supposed to cost about $28,000 to complete. The three men hope supporters will donate to their community mental health programs.
The last chance to support the trio is this Saturday afternoon and evening. A send off fundraiser is being held at Phoenix House parking lot from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be plenty of music, hamburgers and entertainment. The cost is by donation and families are encouraged to drop in.
Well-known local singer Ken Hamm is being featured Saturday night in a benefit concert at Hope Lutheran Church on Departure Bay Road. The concert is set for 7:30 p.m., and is sponsored by the Friends of the Red Willow Coffee House.
Another unique event happening Saturday is a chess challenge at Port Place Mall.
This is your chance to witness Nanaimo's own chess master, Jonathan Berry, as he takes on challengers and simultaneously plays 12 opponents.
Worthy opponents are encouraged to register at the Port Place Administration office.
A $5 entrance fee will be donated to Literacy Nanaimo and Port Place will match every donation.
Participants can win one of two $50 gift certificates from London Drugs and one of two $50 dining gift certificates courtesy of the Nanaimo Daily News.
A benefit concert is being held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at St. Andrews United Church. Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa, and the young Devon Joiner will take on the piano. Tim Richard will lead vocals. All proceeds raised will benefit the Church and the War Resisters Support. Call 758-0966.
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