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In the last seven years, Edmonton teacher Wayne Lavold has helped raise more than $250,000 to fight multiple sclerosis (MS).
Fuelled by his father’s MS diagnosis, the Harry Ainlay High School teacher joined forces with the MS Bike event, which provides Canadians the opportunity to ride through scenic parts of the country while raising money to help end MS.
“It occurred to me that the MS Bike would be a great opportunity for my students and their friends to demonstrate their citizenship by giving back to the community,” Lavold said.
His team — Glen’s Titans Never Tire — is named after his father, who died in 2008. Since then, more than 260 students, staff and friends have ridden with his team. Some participants return year after year to ride.
“My school has offered great support too — especially considering that it isn’t an official school activity. We have had space at the Ainlay open house and have managed to incorporate the group into coursework as leadership, and IB students can use their experience as volunteer hours for their programs.”
The school’s graphic design program even gets involved by designing T-shirts for the team.
“As for the students, it’s great to see them spread their wings and develop an understanding of what it means to be healthy and happy and how they can make a difference too,” Lavold said. ❚
