Charity walk for CHEO concludes at Shawville Fair opening, more than $25,000 raised

Charity walk for CHEO concludes at Shawville Fair opening, more than $25,000 raised

While the opening of the Shawville Fair on Thursday evening (August 31), served as the beginning of another Labour Day weekend packed with activities, it also served as the finale of one man’s walk for charity.

Russell Mackay, whose trek to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario has taken him across the Pontiac this week arrived at the front gates of the fairgrounds backed by the Renfrew Highlands Pipes and Drums and took a victory lap around the site, flanked by friends, family and admirers. Though he is 85, diabetic and legally blind, Mackay was in high spirits after walking 10 km per day in various Pontiac towns and villages.

His entourage completed their march inside the arena to take part in the fair’s opening ceremonies. Clarendon Mayor and Shawville Lions Club President Ed Walsh presented Mackay with a cheque for $2,500 from the Lions, as well as a commitment of another $500 from the municipal council. The event also featured a charity auction with a variety of items donated by the fair community as well as Mackay’s friends, giving the fundraiser a needed boost.

Speaking the next day, Mackay’s daughter Crystal said that they were able to present CHEO representatives with a cheque for $25,500 last night, tantalizingly close to their goal of $30,000. She said that they would be accepting donations online for another month or so.

The link to donate to the cause is available here.