Mel Thompson is on his way.

Some photos and a few words that commemorate the start of an incredible journey, The Ride for Mental Health, to open hearts and minds and to create awareness and acceptance for those living with mental illness.


The cyclists arrive


The Xerox Organizing Team: Andre, Sharon, Kevin, Rob, Naz, Andy, Steve and Catherine


Merrill Shepard - CMHAVB Past President, Dr. Art Hister, Pervez Siddiqui - CMHAVB President, Dr. Kerry Jang - City Councillor


Mel Thompson

In Mel Thompson's Own Words:

"We literally just parked the bikes after an incredible launch. We met at Vanier Beach to dip the wheels of my bike in the ocean. Then a group of about 25 riders pedalled with me to the Art Gallery at the city centre. A live band, "RADIOPLAY" greeted us and the Executive Director of the CMHA Vancouver Burnaby Branch mc'd the ceremonies. A city counsellor, Dr. Kerry Jang,(who is also a psychiatrist) commented on the City's commitment to mental health and spoke of several initiatives. A local TV and radio personality, Dr Art Hister, made a great speech with some humour and they gave me about 10 minutes. I introduced my daughter Lindsay who spoke for 3 minutes and then I spoke for about 5 and had an opportunity to thank the organizers and the band and the CMHA Vancouver Burnaby Branch and talk a little about our objectives. Then Andy recognized the committee and then presented a cheque for $7777.00. Then we rode out with several police officers on bikes escorting us out of town.

Things went very smoothly and even the weather cooperated.

So my quote for the day is "Thanks to Andy and the Vancouver team for an amazing launch of the Ride For Mental Health. We had a fun first day of riding, arriving in Mission about 85 K from Vancouver. There are countless hills and mountains between here and Calgary. They worry me but I'm going to knock them down one at a time. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone and to a great event in Calgary.""