Simon Pupulin
I was born in Windsor, Ontario and have lived there my whole life until recently moving away to Ottawa for school. Growing up, I always had a close relationship with my grandparents. They were first generation Canadians who immigrated from Europe and sacrificed so much for their families to have a chance at a better life. From them, I learned the meaning of perseverance and compassion, but most importantly, how to make a mean gnocchi bolognese.
Shortly after moving, my nonno was hospitalized and we slowly realized he was losing his battle to illness. At a time when being in the same city wasn’t possible, technology allowed me to be by his side in his final days to provide support and comfort. Even after he passed, I have been able to maintain a close relationship with my nonna through weekly FaceTime calls and texts. Now, amidst a global pandemic, access to technology allows for seniors like my nonna to remain connected to their friends and loved ones.
I have never been much of a cyclist, so this will be a new and exciting challenge for me. I look forward to being able to push my limits for a noble cause, and to make my grandparents proud along the way.