‘Still good people in this world’; CIFM rock ‘n’ roll convoy pitches in to replace Kamloops cancer patient’s stolen bike

Woods is a cancer patient and pensioner whose e-bike – the one he used to ride to Royal Inland Hospital for treatment — was stolen from his home.

After Woods called Omen to tell his story and offer a description of the bike on Aug. 28, the morning show host played the call on the air and posted a video on social media.

Within minutes, Elisha Noyes of ASK Wellness reached out to offer Woods a lift to treatment, said Omen.

Within hours, realtor David Payne, Kindness Cures executive director Derek Strokon and Rivershore Ram marketing manager Steve (Steak) Andres cobbled together enough money to cover the at-cost price District Bicycle Company offered for a new e-bike.

“This is something different that really warms my heart, doing something that actually matters for a change, using my powers for good instead of evil,” Omen said with a laugh.

“It just shows what a great community Kamloops is when something that really matters comes to the forefront, like Brian needing a new e-bike. They really stepped up when it truly matters.”

Omen and his benevolent listeners gathered at District on Tuesday morning before making the delivery.

“There’s so much sad in this story,” Strokon said. “It’s sad that Brian is going through treatment. It’s sad that he had his bike stolen. But you’ve just got to find the good in the world. And when we rally the community, the good comes out on top.”

Added Andres: “I’m just glad that he’s got his ride back and that we were able to help. I would like to see this maybe inspire somebody to help somebody who they know because even the little things matter, especially in a situation like this.”

Woods met the rock-n-roll convoy near his downtown Kamloops home, embracing each member and thanking them before admiring his new ride.

“I mean, what can you say?” Woods said, noting he feels 65 going on 25. “I was almost in tears. Like, I didn’t think it was real. It’s like winning the lottery. I use it to go to the hospital and back for my treatment. I depend on it a lot.”

Omen watched while Woods hopped on his new ride and took it for a spin.

“I’m trying not to cry today because I think it’s really a beautiful story about our community,” Omen said. “I don’t really know what else to say other than that. I’m just really happy that we were able to help this guy in his time of need.”

by Marty Hastings

‘Still good people in this world’; CIFM rock ‘n’ roll convoy pitches in to replace Kamloops cancer patient’s stolen bike

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