A year after the start of the ride; 11 years since losing Hillary

A message from Hillary’s dad…

1 year ago I was in Victoria with my family and a few friends about to embark on our cross Canada bike trip.

Today marks 11 years since we lost Hillary.

Betty jo and I went down to visit her tree last night and noticed how the the little scar that the deer chewed into the trunk several years ago has developed into a big hole in the bark exposing the inside of the tree. I think that somehow reflects how the scar that Hillary’s death left on us has somehow exposed our insides as well and like the tree, we have somehow found a way to grow.

I am so proud of how we as a family and a community have moved forward and, in Hillary’s name, done some thing to help make a difference. People talk now more openly about mental health and the stigma is starting to go away. With efforts like Clara Hughes’ and many others moving into the future, I know that together we can make a difference.

As usual friends, I ask you to keep Hillary in your thoughts today and do something nice for a stranger.

“Love is all you need”

Bill, Betty jo and the rest of Hillary’s family
Much Love

4 thoughts on “A year after the start of the ride; 11 years since losing Hillary

  1. Hi Bill,
    My thoughts are with you and your family on this day and throughout the year.
    It was a pleasure to meet you and your team last year. I applaud what you have done to decrease the stigma around Mental Health Issues. As more and more individuals speak out about this it WILL reduce the stigma and hopefully more and more people will reach out for the help that they so desperately need.
    All the best for this day.
    Shelley

  2. Hi Bill, Couldn’t help thinking about you, Betty-Jo and the rest of the Hillary’s ride team today as I sat at the Clara’s Big Ride meeting. As you said people are talking more openly, things are changing and Hillary’s Ride has helped make a difference.

    Always in my thoughts,
    Carol

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