Mac
MacLellan has been a dedicated MS Bike Tour volunteer for over 20 years and a
Tour Leader for the past 18 years. He became a volunteer after participating in
his first MS Bike Tour ̶ Brampton to Guelph in 1990 where he says the
dedication of the staff and volunteers inspired him to get involved.
“[Volunteering
for the MS Bike Tour] is about doing something for someone who can't and
supporting fundraising for new treatments and especially a cure for MS,” Mac
says. “Over the years I’ve met so many individuals, who I now consider loved
ones, who have to endure this debilitating disease daily, but who handle all
that comes their way with such dignity,” he continues. “Giving my time as a
Tour Leader is my small way of saying 'thanks' to the hundreds of cyclists who
are making a difference to those individuals.”
In addition
to volunteering, Mac is also a dedicated fundraiser and has participated as a
cyclist in nearly 60 Tours over the years. “I really enjoy the sense of
achievement that the riders have when they cross the finish line and the fact
that we are coming together to raise funds and awareness for such an important
cause.”
This year
Mac joined a team of dedicated volunteers and staff at the inaugural MS Bike
Tour Prince Edward County on July 8 (he was the first person to register as a
participant of the Tour!). Over 200 cyclists united to embark on a 75 km ride
through Picton and raised over $135,000 in support of programs, services and
research for those living with MS. “The smaller scale route, the serenity and
beauty of Prince Edward County and the respectfulness of drivers along the
route,” says Mac, were just some of the highlights that set this Tour apart
from the rest. “Overall it was a very successful event and the great group of
volunteers and staff played a vital role in achieving that success.”
To join the MS Bike Tour as a volunteer, please contact Nicole
Dube at 1-800-268-7582
ext. 3111 or volunteer@mssociety.ca.
Come out and meet the MS Bike Tour team at the 2012 ExpoCycle! The
event is located at the Direct Energy Centre
Exhibition Place, 100 Princes' Blvd, and is open to the public from 10am until
6pm. The expo will include the latest bikes and cycling gear that will be
available in your local bike shop in 2013. There will also be a BMX/Trials
Demo Presentation Zone, a Wheelie Kool Kids Zone and much more! Invite your
family, friends and MS Bike Tour teammates. For more info visit www.expocycle.ca 
