Revelstoke Teen Thanks Cops for Kids Cyclists After Surgery

A special meeting took place in Revelstoke on September 11, 2024, when a group of cyclists from the Cops for Kids charity met with 14-year-old Edith Garratt, who recently underwent a crucial surgery to remove a brain tumour. Edith and her mother, Arleigh Garratt, had just returned to Revelstoke after Edith’s craniotomy at the BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.

The Cops for Kids initiative, which is celebrating its 25th annual fundraising cycle, played a significant role in easing the Garratts’ financial burden during this challenging time. The charity helps families facing medical crises by covering costs related to food and travel. “We want to help a family move through that,” said Kelsey Moore, a first-time rider and B.C. natural resource officer, during the cyclists’ visit to the Revelstoke RCMP detachment.

A Journey for a Cause

The team, consisting of 23 riders including RCMP officers, is cycling approximately 1,000 kilometres over ten days across southeastern British Columbia. Their efforts aim to raise awareness and funds for children and families experiencing illness, disability, or trauma. Moore, who is participating in her first long-distance cycling event, expressed her desire to give back to the community. “I just really wanted to give back,” she noted.

As the cyclists made their way through various communities, they focused on raising support for children in need, including those requiring organ transplants. Cpl. Tania Finn from the Vernon RCMP highlighted the importance of their mission, stating, “We like to just keep them moving so they don’t have to stop and brake.” The riders are required to commit to extensive training and sign up by January each year to participate in this challenging event.

Community Impact and Fundraising Success

The peloton made a second stop in Big Eddy before continuing on to Three Valley Gap for the night. Their journey will take them to Kamloops on September 12, Vernon on September 13, and finally back to Kelowna on September 14, coinciding with Moore’s 28th birthday. This year, the Cops for Kids event aims to build on its impressive track record, having raised approximately $6.5 million since its inception, with annual fundraising typically ranging between $300,000 and $500,000.

According to event coordinator Courtney King, this year’s fundraiser has already supported 282 children and families in southeastern B.C. “We get requests every single day,” she remarked, underscoring the ongoing need for support in the community.

Individuals interested in contributing to the efforts of Moore or other riders can visit the Cops for Kids website to donate and assist in their mission to support families in need.