How does Arvid get from Vancouver to Halifax beyond the copious amounts of sweat and determination? Support crew.
(Photo note: Crew talks through who’s going where, when…)
Since Winnipeg Arvid has been physically an emotionally supported by a team of people and vehicles. Henry and Brigitte Penner hold everything together in the RV. It’s the ‘Hotel on Wheels’ for the whole team. Between the two of them they handle the cooking, laundry, wake up calls, fuel stops, etc. They truly are the glue that holds this thing together.
The actual chase van is stocked with everything Arvid needs to stay on his bike, 24 hours per day if he so chooses. It has a spare bike, bike repair supplies, food, medicine, energy drinks, phones, gps tracker and, most importantly, 2 or 3 dedicated support crew members. Their job is to follow behind Arvid to keep him safe from motor vehicles, prepare his food, supplement and drink needs (which change quickly depending on conditions).
Often Arvid needs conversation to keep his mind occupied and, as road conditions allow, we pull up beside him and chat. We read him the prayers and support emails and blog messages, update him on donations and pray with him, all while the bike is moving towards the goal. At night, the van stays close behind every moment – the van’ lights are his guide down the lonely road
During daylight hours we can leave him to pedal on by himself for a few KM while we purchase him food and drinks, fuel and whatever else is needed. When he needs a short nap, we clear out the van and make room for the mattress.
Arvid’s wife Ruth along with Josh Ruby, Stephen Redekop, Victor Neufeld and until yesterday, Henry Bergen pull 12 hour shifts, any time of day or night (Crew shifts begin at 2pm and 2am). We sleep if and when we can. Maybe we’ll post some crew pics later
Victor Neufeld
Hope you had a good rest Arvid. Support crew you look like you are amazing and invaluable! You obviously believe in the support and sacrifice Arvid is giving to MCF!