My Story
An Ordinary Man on an Extraordinary Adventure
Bill Shoup & Yoshi; Oro Station, Ontario
Couch Potato? No Way!
Looking at me, you would think I’m a quiet 60-year-old man in search of a lounge chair and a beer. But nothing could be further from the truth.
I’m an outdoor enthusiast, personal trainer, judo instructor and owner of All Around Health and Fitness, and I’m finally striking out on my lifelong dream of cycling across Canada. That’s roughly 6,500 km!
Starting May 2022 from Surrey, B.C., I’ll be raising awareness and funds for three close-to-my-heart charities – Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, Easter Seals Canada and the Canadian Women’s Foundation. Along with Yoshi, my rescue dog, my goal is to raise $50,000 by September's finish in Sydney, N.S. I’m inviting you along for the ride – virtually.
Life Spurs Attitude and Fundraising Efforts.
Health issues and life circumstances make me the I-laugh-at-challenges man I am today.
Raised by a single mom, who worked two jobs while attending nursing school, I experienced early setbacks. Today, the need to raise awareness of family violence, women empowerment, and end poverty is urgent.
Although active and competitive in soccer and judo as a young adult, I suffered stomach issues and was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I hit a low point when a life-threatening accident perforated my colon, and I had to rethink my lifestyle choices and outlook.
Recent volunteering and fundraising for Easter Seals Canada have only underscored my life philosophy of inclusion. I believe everyone has abilities and deserves dignity.
It’s experiences like these that push me to raise awareness and to motivate you, the Canadian people, to come together and support these worthy charities.
Inspiring You to Be All the Best You Can Be.
Simply put, that’s my motto. I challenge individuals, small businesses, corporations, city officials, and government agencies across Canada to step up your game and be all the best you can be by donating and/or sponsoring Yoshi and me on our fundraising adventure.
Follow me on my YouTube channel, Bill and Yoshi’s Outdoor Adventures, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. I’ll share my daily ride and introduce you to interesting people and places along the way.
Our Charities:
