The Rotary Club of Estoi Palace International (RCEPI) organised its 12th fundraising “End Polio Now” bike ride with Activity Algarve Bike Rides on Sunday, November 16.
Following the torrential rain of Saturday (Storm Claudia), it was a great relief for participants to see the sun shining on Sunday morning. Over 20 cyclists set off on a 40km bike ride from outside Estoi Pousada.
Donations from those taking part totalled €375. Donations from RCEPI members and other well-wishers raised the overall amount to €1,170.
Beginning in 1979, a successful vaccination programme has fought this disease. India has been polio free for over 10 years. Unfortunately, it remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and it can easily get a foothold in war-torn countries. Gaza has undergone a massive vaccination programme after it was detected there.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation joined the polio fight in 2013 and match two-to-one every dollar the Rotary Foundation commits to reduce the funding shortfall for polio eradication. The total raised will become €3,510 to buy much-needed vaccines.
Rotarians worldwide have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries. For as little as $0.60, a child can be protected against this crippling disease for life. Vaccination is essential to stop the disease returning to the countries where it has already been eradicated.
For further information on RCEPI, email info@estoipalace.org or visit www.rotaryestoipalace.org
