An Abbotsford couple has received an award for driving across Canada last year to raised funds for the ALS Society of BC.
Dianne and Mark Boutilier were presented on April 5 with the society’s Exceptional Public Awareness Program Award.
The award goes to those who develop programs to educate and raise awareness about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Dianne and Mark began the idea for Cruisin’ Canada for ALS in 2015, after having lost their friends Rhonda Graw and Ron Oldenberger to the disease.
In June 2015, during ALS Awareness Month, the two took time away from their jobs to drive across Canada and back in 35 days. They raised more than $35,000 in donations.
“Support from inspiring individuals like Dianne and Mark is integral to our success,” said Wendy Toyer, executive director of ALS Society of BC. “Cruisin’ Canada for ALS helps us spread awareness, as well as connect the public with the right resources for those living with ALS.”