Rotary Club Estoi Palace International will be holding its 12th fundraising “End Polio Now” bike ride on Sunday, November 16.
Participants will be helping the worldwide efforts to eradicate polio, one of the cornerstone projects of Rotary International.
They can either take part in the cycle ride or just make a donation. All funds raised will be matched 2-to-1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Seventy years ago, polio was one of the most feared diseases in the developed world, killing hundreds of children in the UK each year and leaving thousands paralysed. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented. Polio vaccine, given multiple times, can protect a child for life.
Beginning in 1979, a successful vaccination programme has fought this disease, and it was only endemic in two countries in the world – Afghanistan and Pakistan. However, the polio virus was detected in Gaza and a concerted effort is still under way to ensure that vaccination programmes are maintained despite the extremely challenging conditions there.
The ride will be organized by Activity Bike Rides and will start from Estoi Palace Pousada at 9.30am and will take about 2.5 to 3 hours. The ride is around 35 to 40 kms.
To book a place or donate, email polio@rotaryestoipalace.org or visit Facebook: Activity Algarve Bike Rides
