In an effort to try to keep the webpage organized, please post your support and words of encouragement on this page! Thank you so much!
coast2coast4tsc
Biking across Canada for Tuberous Sclerosis
In an effort to try to keep the webpage organized, please post your support and words of encouragement on this page! Thank you so much!
Congratulations Melanie! I have been meaning to make a donation and finally did today! I have a 10 year old son with Tuberous Sclerosis so awareness and fundraising is near to my heart. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your bravery and dedication. I would love to hear how Tuberous Sclerosis has touched your life. If you’re ever in Vancouver again and need a place to stay – you’re always welcome at our place! Oh, and I e-mailed the “Vancouver Sun” newspaper a couple of days ago to let them know you had finished your trek. Have some much deserved relaxation and I’ll check back to your site in a few days for the updated pictures etc. You are an inspiration!
By: Leanne Pryce on August 10, 2012
at 5:40 pm
Hey Mel , mission completed. You survived heat, highways, hardship and face washes from semis. You have my ultimate respect. Love Dad.
By: Robert Howitt on August 17, 2012
at 8:36 pm
Congratulations Melanie! Every turn of your wheel was a reminder, and an inspiration to those of us who struggle with TSC. Thank you for your courage and leadership!! ( I can’t even imagine how fabulous everything must feel now that you’re done!!
)
By: Sue McIntosh on August 10, 2012
at 10:24 am
Congratulations Melanie ……..
Thank you for your super effort to raise money for/ and bring awareness to everyone about Tuberous Sclerosis.
God Bless!!
By: Lynette Spring on August 10, 2012
at 2:16 am
145 km to St. John’s Newfoundland TODAY! Please join us in wishing our TSC Rider Melanie Howitt a safe journey and a triumphant last day! Congratulations Melanie, you are our TSC hero!
By: Tuberous Sclerosis Canada Sclérose Tubéreuse on August 9, 2012
at 11:14 am
Happy Birthday Melanie our TSC Rider! Congratulations on reaching Newfoundland and good luck with your fundraising goal of $1 per km. Contact us for some good news regarding support for the last leg of your journey.
TSC Canada ST
By: Tuberous Sclerosis Canada Sclérose Tubéreuse on August 8, 2012
at 12:18 pm
Way to go Mel! Good luck in your final trek! We’ve been rooting for you from the beginning!
By: Leanne Pryce on August 8, 2012
at 12:17 pm
Happy, happy birthday, little buddy!
I hope your day was spectacular from start to finish…love you lots! 
Can’t wait to hear the news that you’ve conquered your coast to coast journey…you must be so close! Proud of you beyond words…
By: Virginia on August 8, 2012
at 12:05 am
Happy Birthday! Hope you had a FABULOUS day today Melanie, and some well deserved treats. Hope you are clearly seeing that light at the end of the tunnel now. I bet we’ll hear you cheering as you ride that final kilometer, all the way to Kenora! You can bet that we’ll be cheering with you. -Sue
By: Sue McIntosh on August 7, 2012
at 11:04 pm
Happy Happy Birthday Melanie!!! It looks like you will be celebrating your birthday in Newfoundland, this will be a birthday you will never forget!! What an amazing journey!! You are incredible Mel!!
By: Rita on August 7, 2012
at 9:03 am
Holy cow, dude! You’re really tearing up this last section of the Trans Canada!! Awesome! Keep on truckin!
By: Virginia on August 1, 2012
at 10:45 pm
Congratulations Melanie on making it to Newfoundland! Amazing, on the last leg of your journey + in province number 10. Watch out for the moose + the Moosehead (beer)!
Melanie took the ferry across last night, Friday August 3rd, and will finish the trip solo. Although, NFLD is one of the friendliest places in Canada and it will be difficult to feel alone there. Our east coast friends always make us feel at home there.
Vancouver BC to St. John’s Newfoundland, a 7564 kilometer trek, puts Melanie in a unique club, coast to coast on a bicycle, in the second largest country in the world. The people you are helping will be forever grateful!
Please help Melanie reach her goal of $1 a kilometer.
Good luck Mel, keep safe and look forward to seeing you soon!
By: D Patrick Howitt on August 4, 2012
at 7:11 pm
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Melanie + congratulations for making it to Grand Falls/Windsor NFLD!
A stellar performance, considering the difficulties she has overcome, especially some of the most challenging so far. Hard to believe that having come so far, that the home stretch is almost in sight. What a show of guts, perseverance + determination!!
Keep safe + keep strong, we’re all cheering for ya and hope this birthday is your best one yet!
By: D Patrick Howitt on August 7, 2012
at 12:04 am
‘At a girl Melanie! August 7th looking good; you are one incredible young lady. Keep pushing hard!
-with encouragement, Sue McIntosh
By: Sue McIntosh on July 26, 2012
at 11:27 pm
Yesterday Melanie had a great travel day, biking over 125km’s, camping in Nackawic New Brunswick, home of the world’s largest axe! She had a visitor last night, her father’s friend, Ken Baugh on his way to the east coast with his family, stopped there for the night. Tonight, the trans Canada travelers are camping in Mill Cove NB, about 30 miles east of Fredericton. Keep on truckin’ + keep safe!
By: D Patrick Howitt on July 28, 2012
at 6:55 pm
Melanie says she hasn’t achieved her goal yet of $1 per k. Does anyone know how close she IS to that goal? I didn’t even realize that was her goal; maybe if we know how close she is, we can do some campaigning…..? -Sue
By: Sue McIntosh on July 28, 2012
at 8:18 pm
Congratulations Melanie on making it to your 8th province, land of the bright red mud + bud the spud, Prince Edward Island! You never know what to expect, yesterday you had a bear wander in front of you, today, face to face with a mackerel. Tomorrow, possibly Nova Scotia, are you sure you’re not on a motorcycle? Keep on klickin!
By: D Patrick Howitt on August 1, 2012
at 2:30 am
Melanie is having another high mileage day, she is currently 10km’s from Magnetic Hill in Moncton NB! ! There she will get a look at the world’s highest tidal bore from the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Check Flickr, YouTube or Google Street View for images of the area. Hopewell Rocks are definitely worth a look!
By: D Patrick Howitt on July 29, 2012
at 1:20 pm
Greetings, little lady! Wow! You have made it to the Maritimes!! How incredible…I’m in awe of your strength and determination to see this journey through. Can’t wait to watch the last leg of this Coast-to-Coast adventure unfold for you, and to welcome you back home in just a week or so! Cheers to you and all of your success so far…
By: Virginia on July 26, 2012
at 8:38 pm
Melanie + Snib, both her father + support vehicle are staying at the Falls + Gorge Campground tonight, in Grand Falls New Brunswick! Amazing!!
The site of the legend of the young native girl who saved her village by luring a Mohawk tribe over the great falls and 23 meters (75.5 feet) down into the Gorge!
Acadian pioneers, French Canadians, the Irish, the Scottish and English Loyalists have all contributed to the development of this community since the 19th century. In 1686, Monsignor de Saint-Vallier, second Bishop of Quebec, was the first to mention Grand Falls in his writings. A commemorative monument was erected in 1986 at the entrance to Davis Park.
In 1791, Thomas Carleton, first Governor of New Brunswick, had a military post built, which was named after him.
Known as Colebrooke until 1890, the town was next named Grand Falls because of its great falls.
The native name given to Grand Falls was Chicanekapeag, meaning giant destroyer. Here, the Saint John river ceases to be the natural border between the United States and Canada.
CPR Steam Locomotive No.508 History
A story that will intrigue most of you who have a thing for local historical events. This article won’t give you all the answers pertaining to locomotive No. 508 but will at least make you aware of its past existence and its colorful history.
Melanie’s adventure opens up our awareness of so much, including the inspiration of her journey http://www.tscanada.ca/, please take a look!
By: D Patrick Howitt on July 26, 2012
at 9:55 pm
Just amazing! I’m sure you have been keenly aware of every km pedalled, but Ottawa already. I can’t come close to expressing my admiration for your determination, strength and selflessness. I wish you nothing but down hills for the rest of the way. The guy at MEC Burlington.
By: Werner Schreiner on July 19, 2012
at 4:04 pm
Congratulations to my niece Melanie for conquering another time zone + spending her first night in Atlantic Canada, Edmundston,
New Brunswick! Way to go Mel, you rock!
By: D Patrick Howitt on July 25, 2012
at 11:44 pm
Hello Melanie,
I have been following your journey for a little while now and the only thing that comes to my mind is WOW!! what you are doing is very impressive.
Make sure to let me know if you need a place to stay in Quebec City.
I would love to assit you with anything you need.
We have a special dish here in Qc called ”Poutine” not sure if you ever tried it but if not, I would be glad to invite you to have one.
Cheers ! Genevieve
By: Genevieve on July 17, 2012
at 12:25 pm
Hi Mel, glad to see that your making great time through Ontario. Make sure to let me know if you need a place to stay in Ottawa. I can help you with anything you need.
By: Melissa Cote on July 13, 2012
at 5:49 am
Hey little lady! Continuing to think of you often, sending out lotsa love and encouragement your way!! I start and end my day by checking your blog and facebook page…just know how proud we all are of you and your adventures thus far….you’re amazing!
By: Virginia on July 11, 2012
at 10:29 pm
Hi Melanie, You are amazing, brave girl. Ontario is a long haul.It is very hot!Keep up the good work.
By: gloria beggs on July 9, 2012
at 4:59 pm
Go Mel!!!!
By: Mark Durksen on July 7, 2012
at 2:21 pm
Way to go Mel! Keep going! We’re all rooting for you!
By: Leanne Pryce on July 7, 2012
at 2:07 pm
Hi Melanie. Have been trying to follow your ride and am so proud of you. If your route happens to bring you near Belleville, Ontario, please let us know. We would love to give you a place to stay for a night and, perhaps, I could manage to ride a ‘short’ way with you….(might be very short – lol). My 4 year old grandson has TS so your cause is very near and dear to my heart. Take care and ride safe. Doug and Sharon Green
By: Sharon Green on July 2, 2012
at 8:46 pm
Mel,
You continue to impress and amaze me. Keep going!!
<3
By: Jenn Gaudet on July 2, 2012
at 7:41 pm
Hi Melanie! Hope you have had a great couple of days. (I got your message when arrived in Dryden, Thank you!
) I sent your panier and letters, bright and early yesterday, the day you left Kenora.
Hope you get a chance to see the pictures i submitted which are now on the website…..you look awesome!….especially those tan lines!
We think about you lots and the short but wonderful visit we had. You are truly an inspiration; keep on truckin’! -Sue, Jennifer, Doug and Erin
By: Sue McIntosh on June 30, 2012
at 9:21 pm
Hey Melanie,
I am so glad I had the privilege of running into you yesterday and hearing your story. We will continue to follow your journey and wish all the best the rest of the way. I wish I would of known about your journey as I would have loved to have been able to ride along with you for at least a day or two. I have forwarded your story on to my friends and family with the hopes that you will soon get some riding accompaniment.
We wish you all the best on the rest of your journey and will continue to follow your progress.
Stay strong and our prayers are with you!!
By: Jeffery Eidse on June 28, 2012
at 10:31 pm
Hey Melanie,
Heard about you through our son Jeff. You are a very courageous woman. My husband was sorry he had not heard of this sooner, and he would have loved to ride along with you for awhile. But we are in Niverville Mb and so long have passed us. Wishing you safe travels. Our prayers go with you as you do this for your sis.
Annette Eidse
By: Annette Eidse on July 2, 2012
at 7:28 pm
Melanie,
You are an inspiration to us all! You are not travelling through close to us but please know we are cheering you on and thinking of you.
Karen
By: Shulist's on June 28, 2012
at 8:50 pm
Way to go, Mel! I am amazed at what you’re doing.
Keep it going
By: Trevor Wiebe on June 28, 2012
at 5:44 pm
Hey Melanie; hope you’re holding up in this heat. The prairies may be flat but they’re also hot! Hang in there.
When you reach the Ontario border, you’ll have some beautiful and refreshing lakes to look at and cool off in. We’re watching your progress closely, hoping to “greet and treat” you when you come in to Kenora, whatever time of day that might be. Take care and drink lots! Sue McIntosh
By: Sue McIntosh on June 27, 2012
at 11:28 am
Hey Melanie
Was thinking about you the other day during a huge storm and was hoping that you have finally gotten some sun on your journey!! Keep on pedalling!! It was great to meet you!! Good luck!! You can do it!!
Meaghan (Big Horn..hahaha)
By: Meaghan on June 24, 2012
at 8:41 pm
Hi Melanie! What a hero you are for doing this. My daughter (with TSC) and myself are keeping an eye on your progress, hoping that when you pass through Kenora, Ontario,(approx 200 km east of Wpg) we might have a chance to meet you. We wish you Godspeed, and would love to have a chance to set up an interview with our press and treat you to a home cooked meal or whatever you might be craving at the time!…or just shake your hand. No matter what, stay strong!
Warm regards, Sue McIntosh and daughter Jennifer
By: Sue McIntosh on June 24, 2012
at 5:34 pm
Hi Sue! If all goes well, I hope to be in Kenora tomorrow! I would love to meet you as well
Are you far from the Trans-Canada? If not, how would you feel about me pitching my tent on your lawn!? Feel free to give me a call 
289-686-3960 Thank you so much for the support! 
By: Melanie Howitt on June 27, 2012
at 8:12 am
I will definitely call you tonight once I think you are settled somewhere! I’m excited for this next leg of your ride. Bless you! Sue
P.S. my address is 410 Rabbit Lake road in case you are using Google maps. We’re not on the Trans-Canada, but we’ll get you here! Talk later
By: Sue McIntosh on June 27, 2012
at 5:06 pm
Hi Melanie!
Stay strong….stay positive and keep on riding.
I am so pleased and proud that you are doing this extraordinary adventure raising awareness. My young son was diagnosed at 14months and is now just 5yrs. So, your cause is near and dear to me.
Thank you. Simple words, but heartfelt.
Margo H.
By: Margo H. on June 23, 2012
at 12:31 am
Wow! You are very brave! I am impressed (and inspired!) by your venture. I have wanted to bike across Canada for years but have never been able to convince anyone I know to do it with me (and I, unlike you, hadn’t considered doing it on my own
). Looking forward to hearing how your trip progresses.
By: Christine on June 22, 2012
at 8:00 pm
Yay Mel!!! If anyone can do this it is YOU. You are so inspiring. Keep up the great work
I know you’re going to make it to Newfoundland.
By: Mark Durksen on June 22, 2012
at 5:44 pm
Hi Mel! Let me know if you’d like some company cycling through the Ottawa area of your route! All the best,
Tony Wu
By: Anthony Wu on June 20, 2012
at 7:35 pm
Wishing you all the best!
By: Dan Bloom on June 19, 2012
at 9:55 am
Hey Mel, keep on cranking out those KM. Can you do the math and figure out how many cranks of the pedal it would be to complete the triip? Love you lots! Pappa.
By: Robert Howitt on June 20, 2012
at 9:12 pm
Hey there Superwoman! Huge kuddos to you for having completed your first 1000km! That’s an incredible accomplishment and I’m sooooooooooooo proud of you! Keep on truckin, missy! You’re doing great! Love ya!
By: Virginia on June 17, 2012
at 11:52 am
Hey Mel, You’ll soon be finished with Alberta. By the time you’ve finished you will have gone further than from Vancouver to Tokyo. It’s like riding across the Pacific Ocean. You go girl! Love you lots,Pappa.
By: Robert Howitt on June 18, 2012
at 8:45 pm
Hey hope you find a riding partner soon! Your such an inspiration and was so great to meet you! Good luck and power through!!
By: Jaimee on June 13, 2012
at 3:18 am
Hi Mel,
I am in Calgary and while I am not all that close to the Trans-Canada, if you need anything in Calgary let me know and I will do whatever I can to help!
You are doing an amazing thing and I salute you!
By: Katrina Evanochko on June 12, 2012
at 6:33 pm
Mel! I hope everything is ok! You’ll make it with or without a partner! We all know you can do it!
By: Sarah Warren on June 12, 2012
at 3:45 pm
Hey Mel and Kev, that was quite the haul over Rogers Pass. I’ve talked to people who have donated to tbc but it was directly to tbc and not to your web site. Take care , stay safe and be healthy and happy. Love you lots. Pappa.
By: Robert Howitt on June 11, 2012
at 7:09 pm
Melanie,
We hear you have a bracket off?! We can help ….. let us know the next few cities you’ll be entering and we”ll see if their’s a colleague of Dr. Kamatovic’s that can repair it.
Amanda
Kamatovic Orthodontics
info@kamatovicortho.com
By: Amanda McBurney on June 11, 2012
at 3:20 pm
Mel!!
Amazing! My husband, Carlin and I are biking across Canada aswell this summer (leaving Stanley Park on July 5th). We created a non-for-profit organization called Cycle 2 Save. – Its focus is on “preventative medicine” – using daily movement and proper nutrition as a way to reduce risk of developing chronic disease and/or mental illness.
We will donate to your cause and be reading up on you to know what to expect!
Deb
By: Debbie Ray on June 11, 2012
at 10:27 am
Greetings and salutations Mel and Kevin! You’ve got the hearts of a lion. What I mean is that when adversity and challenges wear you down to the point of despair you discover an inner reserve of strength that you didn’t know you had. I don’t know if everyone has it but you certainly do. It enables you to do that last 10 km up a mountain range or the last 120 lb pack on a 5 km canoe portage. Only when you dare to place yourself in that situation can you tap into it. The result is a greater confidence, determination and independence that will reward you for a lifetime. Love you lots. Pappa.
By: Robert Howitt on June 8, 2012
at 11:51 am
Hello Melanie and Kevin, what an amazing experience and for a wonderful cause!! Wishing you safe travels!! We are excited to watch you thru your journey!! The Beer Family (daughter Jaden with TSC, age 10)
By: Jennifer Beer on June 5, 2012
at 12:45 am
give ‘er stank champ!! I’m only finding out about your big adventure just now, but I think its awesome. Get some penaten cream for your tushie if you don’t already, and hang in there. Seriously, let me know if you are coming my way, we’ll make you more than comfortable!!!!!
By: Amelia on June 4, 2012
at 2:43 pm
Hi Melanie, Thinking about you as you make your way on such an exciting journey. Stay strong, happy and safe. You have the most positive, sparkling attitude that I know will help you on your way. Keep smiling Melanie, your doing such a great thing. Cheers to you !!
Linda Misener
Kamatovic Orthodontics
By: Linda Misener on June 4, 2012
at 10:01 am
Good luck!! You’ll kill it!
By: Kyle Richard on June 3, 2012
at 9:20 pm
This is SO EXCITING! You’re at the hardest, most wonderful part of BC – between reminiscing and my excitement for you, I can barely see straight! I’m so glad you’re on your way! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!?!
You go girl (and boy!)
By: Jocelyn on June 3, 2012
at 7:50 pm
Go Mel,Go Kev, when you come through Haliburton you can have a 24 hour hot shower and enough moose steaks to enable you to grow antlers. Love you lots.
By: Robert Howitt on June 3, 2012
at 6:16 pm
Great progress so far!! I can’t wait to hear how it’s going…I hope you guys are meeting lots of new people and having fun along the way.
By: Melissa on June 3, 2012
at 2:53 pm
Great idea to set up a separate message board Melanie and Kevin! We’re first on the board!
It is day two – wishes for you are that you stay safe, meet great new friends, enjoy the ride, and get lucky with the weather. Thanks for what you are doing for people with tuberous sclerosis complex.
(New supporters: don’t forget after you post here to read the earlier messages of encouragement on the home tab and Tuberous Sclerosis tab.)
By: Tuberous Sclerosis Canada Sclérose Tubéreuse on June 2, 2012
at 2:31 pm