Rick Hansen Relay to stop at NSAC

Making a difference in the lives of others comes easy for four NSAC participants in the 25th anniversary Rick Hansen Relay scheduled to stop at the local university this Tuesday, September 20th, 2011.

NSAC alumni Mattea Tracey and Dwane Mellish along with student Paul Manning and staff member Lugene Young are among 7,000 participants from across Canada helping to retrace the Canadian segment of the original Man In Motion World Tour. This time, one man in motion will be represented and celebrated by many in motion, engaging Canadians who are seeking ways to generate change and improve the lives of others.

“NSAC’s people are often described as quiet crusaders – individuals who make a difference on a daily basis in their communities and to their environment,” explained NSAC Co-President Dr. Bernie MacDonald. “They roll up their sleeves and help out because it’s the right thing to do,” he added. “We are so pleased that these four are being recognized in this way.”

Mattea Tracey, an NSAC Masters student is heavily involved in the Drive Away Hunger campaign annually raising much needed food for the Colchester Food Bank. Dwane Mellish is a 30-year volunteer veteran of the Bible Hill Fire Brigade. NSAC Nurse Educator Lugene Young believes in the power of setting a positive example and contributes her expertise to many community organizations. Paul Manning is making a difference on a global basis raising funds for victims of natural disasters and has volunteered his services in a developing country.

As the Relay connects the country from coast to coast, the symbol that links each participant to the next will be the Rick Hansen Medal, designed and handcrafted in sterling silver by the Royal Canadian Mint. In addition to their participant uniform, every Medal-Bearer will receive their own commemorative medal from the Royal Canadian Mint to permanently remember the way in which they personally added to the momentum of the 25th Anniversary Man In Motion World Tour.

Medal Bearers will be leaving the NSAC Langille Athletic Centre at 1:20 p.m. The community is invited to come out and show their support to these difference makers as they make their way along the route.