With less than four weeks to go, local ironman Dr. Larry Smith is busy preparing for the 225 km Penticton triathlon to raise funds and awareness for the Forward House mental health and addictions recovery society in Parksville.
“Dr. Larry has long been a friend and advocate for Forward House,” said executive director Carol Richardson.
“He contributes in myriad ways to our progress.”
Smith, who competed in Ironman in 2006 and 2008, will swim 3.8 km, cycle 180 km and run 42.2 km on August 26 as part of his efforts to efforts demonstrate that most challenges are surmountable and that recovery from illness is possible.
“I feel very fortunate to once again be competing in Ironman Canada,” he has previously said. “I am grateful to be a member of both the Forward House community and the Ironman community.”
Richardson said she and the other Forward House partners note that the chiropractor donates considerable time and effort to local charitable undertakings.
“We are privileged to be in partnership with him in this important exercise. His example and his generosity are extraordinary.”
She encourages people to support him, even just verbally — “tell Dr. Larry you believe in him and in the work of Forward House,” she said.
Anyone donating over $20 will receive a tax receipt and every donor is entered to win prizes totalling over $1,000.
Donate online at www.forwardhouse.com. For more information contact Forward House at 250-954-0785 or 129, E. Jensen Ave, or Dr. Smith at 250-248-6333 or 255A E Island Hwy.