Dorothy Goodwin wanted one thing for her 94th birthday: to cross the new suspension bridge at Elk Falls Provincial Park in British Columbia. It was one her bucket list.
Campbell River Mirror
The bridge has a many stairs leading to it, and even more that connect it to a viewing platform for the falls. Goodwin isn't able to handle the stairs on her own. Her family reached out to the volunteers with Campbell River Search & Rescue to find a way to fulfil Goodwin's wish.
Elk Falls Suspension Bridge Project
https://www.facebook.com/600531799965897/photos/a.923509751001432.1073741829.600531799965897/979076948778045/?type=3&theater
Six members of Campbell River Search & Rescue stepped up for what they dubbed "Operation: Get Grannie To The Bridge." They borrowed a TrailRider, a wheelchair built to help disabled people experience hiking and other activities.
Campbell River Volunteer Search and Rescue Society / Via Facebook: CRSAR
Goodwin was loaded into the chair on what turned out to be a rainy day. They gave her a Maple Leafs blanket to help keep her warm. (She's a big fan.)
And off they went, as detailed in a video shot by the Campbell River Mirror.
Campbell River Mirror
“I’ve always been interested in the falls,” Goodwin told the paper. “All through my life and when they put that bridge in, I just wanted to cross that just to have the thrill of doing it ..."
Campbell River Mirror
Here's the view of the falls she couldn't wait to see.
Elk Falls Bridge Suspension Bridge Project / Via Facebook: 600531799965897
"Fantastic, I really enjoyed it!"
Campbell River Mirror / Via youtube.com
As a thank you for their work, Goodwin's family donated $1,000 to the Campbell River Search & Rescue organization, according to the paper.
Watch the Campbell River Mirror's video about the trip.
