Montreal Cycle For ALS

It is with great enthusiasm and pride that Montreal joined in the North American initiative to Cycle for ALS of February 7th, 2009. The indoor ride on 50 finely-tuned spin bikes took place at the prestigious Midtown Le Sporting Club Sanctuaire fitness facility which graciously opened their doors to the full event. Nearly 100 fitness enthusiasts, including Allana Damphousse, official spokesperson for the ALS Society of Quebec brought their abounding energy to the amazingly successful event. The presence and support of Tony Proudfoot, ex-Alouette football athlete, Dawson teacher, and founder of the Tony Proudfoot ALS awareness and fundraising campaign initiative, added much synergy to the unbelievable and palpable effort and good will brought on by participants; some spinning for three consecutive hours with motivating spin instructors, Zoe Dafniotis, Charly Vives, and Candie Ventura at the helm. I was spinning in my late husband, Dr. Marinko Biljan’s memory and was thrilled to have people who knew him rallying their support and cycling alongside. I was able to spin for the entire three consecutive one-hour sessions with much determination and an exhilarating feeling of having contributed my efforts to a much needed cause. I came away with my body reasonably intact, so much satisfaction and one of those almost permanently lingering smiles (like you slept with a hanger in your mouth!). It was all very inspiring and so fulfilling to know that the cohesiveness of this effort is destined to make a difference for people and families living with this lethal disease. I aspire to see the day that this disease is eradicated… in my lifetime. Until then, I will continue to Cycle for ALS every year… so others may live!
The Montreal event raised proceeds just shy of $15,000 during the three hour athletic event. The battle against ALS continues, but this group may just have put a little dent into raising awareness, helping those living with this disease, and gathering funds necessary for cutting-edge scientific research to find the cause, treatment and an eventual cure for ALS…So Others May Live.
So glad to have done this! Diane