A simple act of kindness

Photo: Contributed

A 12-year-old boy has a nearly new bike, thanks to the kindness of strangers.

What do two truckers and a Vernon bike shop have in common? They all came together to help a young man in need.

It all started when Dave Lewis gave Francis a ride to Vancouver.

The 12 year old often catches rides with truckers going from Kelowna – where he visits his brother – back to the Lower Mainland, where he lives with his mom.

Lewis and Francis began chatting, and Lewis learned someone had stolen Francis' bike around Christmas time.

The story touched Lewis, who contacted fellow trucker Glen Anderson and told him the story.

Anderson, who has children about the same age as Francis, said he had a BMX bike Francis could have, so Lewis took it to Sun Country Cycle in Vernon for a few repairs.

“Josh, the mechanic there, did all the repairs, I heard, to the tune of $800 – new tires, new pedals, new seat,” said Lewis. “He also donated an indestructible $90 lock that came off his own bike.”

Lewis was billed $375 for the work that was done, which he paid out of his own pocket.

“I just wanted to help out. A 12 year old has to have a bike,” he said.

Lewis delivered the bike Tuesday night to a very excited young man.

“Without Josh, I wouldn't have been able to do it. They went above and beyond,” said Lewis.