An inspiring journey with a powerful purpose made its way through Cochrane this week as Ukrainian activist and fundraiser Oleksandr Kyyanytsya continues his "Gift of Walking" trek from Calgary to Banff.
Kyyanytsya is raising funds and awareness for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, and says this walk is deeply personal. “I’m raising money for Ukraine,” he shared. “This is my first time in the mountains, and it’s very, very wonderful to be here. It was always my dream to walk here.”
Having already completed several long-distance treks in Eastern Canada, including walking three times from Montreal to Ottawa and once from Toronto, this is Kyyanytsya’s first journey through the Canadian Rockies.
His stop in Cochrane was short but meaningful. “I’ve had very big support from the Ukrainian community here, and also from the Canadian community,” he said. “It’s been wonderful to see.”
RELATED STORIES:
- "Gift of Walking" brings inspiring Ukrainian fundraiser to Cochrane
- WATCH/GALLERY: Ukrainian community presents magical Malanka
- Malanka brings Ukrainian spirit to Cochrane: Food, music, dance
- Ukrainian choir brings culture to Cochrane
- WATCH: Community spirit warms Cochrane Light Up
Kyyanytsya noted that locals have already started to join him for portions of his walk and says he welcomes volunteers to step in along the way. “Yes, yes, people have walked with me. And we are looking again for volunteers who want to walk. It’s more fun with people.”
After taking a well-earned rest day in Cochrane, which included a massage to help recover, he hit the road again Thursday, setting off toward Bragg Creek. From there, he’ll continue on to Banff, with the hope of arriving in the coming days.
“I’m feeling good,” he smiled. “Very happy to do this walk. It means a lot to me.”
To follow his journey or support his cause, go here calgaryucc.ca
