Bell Aliant employee Denise Keating official Medal-Bearer for Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay
Aug 23, 2011
CAPE SPEAR, NL, Aug. 23, 2011 /CNW/ - Nominated by a co-worker and selected among several contest entries, Denise Keating will represent Bell Aliant and her community as a Medal-Bearer in the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay beginning tomorrow in Cape Spear, Newfoundland and Labrador.
"It was the summer of 1986 and I can still remember the day that Rick Hansen stopped at our Elementary School and spoke to everyone about his Man in Motion Tour; the challenges he faced, his goals and his ultimate dream," said Denise Keating, Bell Aliant employee and Medal-Bearer for the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay. "His journey home was just beginning. Even at 11 years old, I remember leaving the auditorium that day feeling like anything was possible. I was so in awe of his courage and the way in which he spoke with such passion about making a difference in the world, by chasing his dream."
Beginning on August 24, 2011 in Cape Spear, Newfoundland, the 25th Anniversary Relay will retrace the Canadian segment of the original Tour, but this time one man in motion will be represented and celebrated by many in motion; engaging 7,000 participants from across Canada who have made their own difference in the lives of others.
These difference-makers will pass the singular Rick Hansen Medal to each other as it weaves its way across the country. The Rick Hansen Medal is not only a symbol of Rick's inspiring story of courage and determination, but it also represents the potential in us all to make a difference in our communities, our country and our world. While Rick cannot be present every day of the tour, his spirit and energy will be represented through the Medal-Bearers.
"I feel so honoured that I was nominated by a co-worker and then selected by the Rick Hansen Foundation to represent Bell Aliant as a medal bearer in the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay," said Keating. "I am truly looking forward to enjoying every minute of this once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Five Bell Aliant employees were recognized as difference-makers in their workplace and communities, and will represent the Atlantic provinces in the Relay. Bell Aliant was invited to nominate employees by Bell Media, the official broadcast partner of the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay.
About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) technology with its FibreOP™ services. Through its operating entities it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality of customer service, choice and convenience.
About the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay
Beginning on August 24, 2011 in Cape Spear, Newfoundland and Labrador, the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay will retrace the Canadian segment of the original Man In Motion World Tour, traveling 12,000 kilometres, through 600 communities and concluding in Vancouver, British Columbia on May 22, 2012. This time, one will inspire many in motion; engaging 7,000 participants from across Canada who have made their own difference in the lives of others. Please visit www.RickHansenRelay.com for more information.
Mark Duggan
Bell Aliant Corporate Affairs
(709) 739-2483
mark.duggan@bellaliant.ca