He’s taking a million steps for Baycrest
Marvin Gord, 99, walked through Ripley's Aquarium Tuesday as part of his fundraising pledge.
Marvin Gord, a 99-year-old Second World War veteran, is on a mission to walk one million steps to raise money for Baycrest Health Sciences.
Gord was inspired by the overseas success of Sir Tom Moore, who captivated the British public by walking 100 laps of his garden in England, raising more than $55 million for the National Health Service in April. Moore was knighted in July by Queen Elizabeth II for his efforts.
“I thought to myself, if (Moore) raised millions by walking and singing around his garden, then ‘What the heck! I already walk about five kilometres a day,’ ” Gord told the Star in a telephone interview Tuesday.
Moore’s feat has inspired others to raise money for charity in a similar manner, like Newmarket’s George Markow who walked 100 kilometres to help raise $47,000 to fight COVID-19. Gord is aiming even higher. The veteran’s goal is to walk one million steps (about 500 km) by his 100th birthday, which falls on New Year’s Eve. He is more than halfway there already, with around 260 km under his belt.
Gord’s initiative was recognized by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who thanked him in a video.
“Marvin, thank you for stepping up. I can’t wait to celebrate this achievement on your 100th birthday,” Trudeau said.
Gord, a resident at one of Baycrest’s seniors homes, walked through Toronto’s Ripley’s Aquarium on Tuesday, as part of his pledge.
Baycrest has played an important role in Gord’s life. His grandmother Yenta Maldover was a founding member of the institution more than 100 years ago and his family has had a close association with Baycrest ever since. Gord has already raised around $69,000, and hopes to collect $1 million. All funds raised will go to Baycrest’s Safeguarding Our Seniors campaign, which funds critical protective measures and medical equipment to safeguard residents under their care.
Lisa Hemi said she’s proud her father is giving back, and honouring the care Gord’s mother, wife and aunt received at Baycrest.
He “continues to inspire us all by his nature and commitment to help others and we couldn’t be prouder,” Hemi said.