$7,082.70

     In 2005 I committed to a six day bicycle ride to Montreal and to raise funds for the Toronto People With AIDS Foundation. The combination of cycling and supporting an LGBTQ+ related cause was a perfect fit, although I didn’t yet understand the work of Toronto PWA (see pwatoronto.org)

      I never expected to repeat that ride 20 times (and counting) and to become a minor part of the ride’s infrastructure. Knowing the urgency of PWA’s work for so many people, my love of cycling and the remarkably inclusive culture of the bike rally has cemented my participation, as it has many other riders and volunteers.

      And, as I have said every year since I turned 70, I would never leverage my age just to gain sponsors.

      With all charities working hard to stay healthy in this economic climate, I’m grateful for any amount of sponsorship.

      For those with deep pockets, a prompt: if you live within hailing distance of downtown Toronto, I’ll bake you a bakers dozen of cookies for a $100 sponsorship or a pie for a $250 donation. OR in lieu of a pie, anywhere the post office reaches, a 5x7 drawing or watercolor of your choice of subject (last year I drew two dogs, three cats, a bouquet and a cottage!)

     Any donation is gratefully received!