Northern Sask. wildfires disrupt Catholic priest biking to raise funds for wheelchairs

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“I’m a military chaplain. I was on a deployment in Ukraine and they don’t have the same health system that we have,” he said. “When someone here requires a wheelchair, basically they get it. When someone there requires a wheelchair, often they don’t. So, you have people crawling around on the floor because they don’t have a wheelchair.”

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While Nahachewsky should know by the end of the day what his alternate plans will be, he said wildfire management has strongly discouraged him to continue biking to Stony Rapids. He’s following the advice because he doesn’t want to have any resources spent on a potential rescue when crews should be focused on fires.

Nahachewsky noted he currently exploring possibilities to continue in the Northwest Territories or Yukon.

“This is about summer holidays, this is about adventure, this is about physical fitness,” he said. “It’s a mental health strategy for staying good during COVID.”

This marks Nahachewsky fourth long distance bike ride. Other rides haved occurred in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. He spent more than six months preparing for the trip considering it’s supposed to be the longest in distance and time spent on gravel roads.

Nina Nahachewsky has been enjoying the time she’s spending with her dad by driving the support vehicle. She’s been monitoring him, as well as setting up camp and preparing meals consisting of military field ration packs called MREs.

She’s also been exploring the wilderness with her feline companion Jamie, which has gone hiking and kayaking with her. The cat isn’t a fan of the water, but doesn’t mind going for boat rides.

“I’m taking so many photos,” Nina Nahachewsky added. “The west part of the province is beautiful, but I worked with La Ronge EMS for four years…The Canadian Shield is absolutely beautiful. It was really cool for me.”

Those who would like to donate or find more information to this cause can do so here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno