GREAT CAUSE, GREAT CANADIAN!

Fond Memories of Meeting Linda Fair

Looking back on August 22, 2005, my wife Rosemarie and I were travelling east on Highway 69 near Mcdougall, Ont., in our Airstream camper on a trip to Sault Ste. Marie. We happened to come upon Linda Fair and her sled team—the very sight of her caravan was so incredible,

I had to stop and take photos.

We chatted by the side of the road for awhile while I snapped off a few shots. After inquiring to the purpose of her trip, Linda told me she was on a cross-country fundraising trek that had begun in Edmonton and would eventually wind up in St. John’s, Newfoundland, a distance of more than 6,000 kilometres. I was impressed, to say the least!

Linda was travelling with six huskies. To protect the dogs and their sensitive paws from the heat of the payment and the daily pounding, Linda made leather booties for each member of her team. She said that she had received a tremendous amount of support from Canadians along her journey thus far, explaining, “It was just heartwarming how many people offered me help and support.”

Her shelter for that night was two small tents, one for her and one for the dogs, but often she was invited to stay in people’s homes. The husky team was well-fed and taken care of—only one dog had to retire early, due to a foot ailment. The trip concluded in November 2005 in Newfoundland, as planned. All funds raised, in excess of $500,000, were used in support of the Husky Mushers Association of Canada. What a great accomplishment, by a great Canadian!