Helping a friend + raising money = rollerblading from coast to coast
by Michelle Minnoch

photo - Rich (right) and Adam at a BBQ over the long weekend.

Get ready to roll has taken a whole to meaning to Rich Ralph of Vancouver. On May 5th, he started rollerblading from St. John's, Newfoundland and he is geared to end his journey in Vancouver in September. On July 1st, he made a stop in Innisfil for a barbeque at the Reid house. His friend, Adam Reid, is the main inspiration Rich started the trek, and helps to keep him going.

"Adam was diagnosed with throat and lung cancer when he was 26," he says. "Seeing as it happened to a friend of mine, I realized it could have easily been me."

When Adam was diagnosed with throat cancer, it was suggested the tumor should be removed from his throat. Prior to the surgery, doctors discovered the cancer had spread to his lungs. The surgery was successful, and Adam was left with a tracheotomy tube protruding from his neck for one year. After the removal of the tube, Adam regained his ability to seek, albeit with a new voice.

Rich's goal is to raise $300,000 for the cause; half of the funds going to Princess Margaret Hospital where Adam received his treatment, the other to the University of Alberta, whose leading edge cancer research teams are leading the way.

For months prior to the 10,000 km skate, Rich trained every morning and evening after work, and on the weekends.

"Before this, I had never rollerbladed more than 10km," he said.

Adam said he is "overwhelmed" by his friends' determination and plight. Before meeting up with him at Princess Margaret Hospital a few weeks ago, it had been about a year since the pair had seen each other.

"About this time last year, July 1st," Rich said, laughing it up with Adam.

For more information about this one-of-a-kind journey, and how you can make a donation, go to www.seetheend.com.

The website shows Rich's daily route, features an online journal, and provides information about the cause, his cross-Canada expedition and much more.