Rowan’s inspirational journey continued this past weekend in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, as he held a ‘Walk across San Pedro’ seeking to reach his goal of raising $100,000 for the Belize Council of the Visually Impaired. The event took place early Saturday morning, August 25, 2012, from Pelican Reef Villas to the Boca del Rio Park north of San Pedro Town.
Dorian’s Angel, Perlita Zapata, was one of the many island residents who showed support to Rowan Garel and trekked the 2.5 mile walk with him from south to north along the main road of Ambergris Caye. She shared a special moment with Rowan as she took his hand to guide him along part of the way.
“Rowan is such an inspiration to us all,” commented Angel Perlita. “I see a young man who is rising above his disability and showing us, by so many examples, how we also can take charge of our lives and rise above our own individual challenges and make positive changes for ourselves and other.”
Rowan’s mission inspired young and old to join him in his walk through San Pedro that even some of his friends from BCVI also traveled to the island to accompany him. He is very strong and willing and finished the walk in just about an hour and a half; some of Rowan’s followers literally had to push themselves to keep up with him.
During his Walk Across Belize, Rowan managed to raise a total of $74,000, but was a bit short of his goal; still a pretty darn impressive feat. But he is still determined to raise what he has set for. Carla Ayres Musa, Communications Officer, of Belize Council for the Visually Impaired, told Ambergris Today that Rowan managed to raise approximately $6,895, not including pledges which amount to about $500 more. The grand total takes BCVI to a little over $80,000 which still put them $20,000 away from the set goal.
But Rowan and the BCVI have not given up though. Rowan and Milagro are still in San Pedro collecting pledges and selling T-Shirts and are also planning a Christmas raffle. They have given themselves to the end of the year to meet the target.
“I would really want to thank the island of San Pedro for all their support, the people and the business community,” commented Carla Ayres Musa. “While we did not reach our goal, we most definitely felt welcome and felt so much kindness and love from those who did come out and take part in the event. We encourage everyone to donate if they have not gotten a chance.”
It’s really easy to make donations; any amount counts and is greatly appreciated. Direct deposits can be made at BCVI Belize Bank Account 71096 or contributions can be sent to BCVI at P.O. Box 525, Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City. You can also donate online, which is even easier, through the BCVI website www.bcvi.org/help.html
