Adventuresome trio raising funds to fight cancer

By JoAn Bjarko
North Forty News

A couple of friends turning almost 50 and almost 60 are going to make this a year of adventure for a good cause.

David Fader of Livermore and Poudre Canyon resident Charlie Wrobbel are heading to California in July with a mission to "Paddle for a Cure." They will be joined by a much younger Aaron Nelson, who will be keeping the two Baby Boomers technologically connected to supporters.

While Wrobbel and Nelson keep their feet on the ground, Fader will glide through Pacific waters on a paddle board, traveling from Vandenberg Air Force Base in Surf, Calif., to the Coronado Bridge in San Diego – a 350-mile journey over 21 days.

Fader, who marks his 50th year in August, said he was looking for an adventure when friends suggested he link it to a cause. Fader chose the American Cancer Society and is working with the local branch to raise donations.

All proceeds will benefit ACS and the Breast Cancer Foundation. Donations may be made by check to The Satisfied Mind Tour, 2511 Hewlett Gulch Road, Livermore CO 80536. Receipts will be provided to donors.

Fader said he first attempted paddling in 1978, and now he is a regular. He uses Douglas Lake or Horsetooth Reservoir for local outings. Paddling, he noted, is the oldest means of transportation on water.

When not on the water, Fader does log home finish work all around the country.

Wrobbel, owner of Decopots.com, watched the recession cut into his business and found a job with Schrader Oil at Ted's Place. He and Fader met there a year ago, and Fader sought out Wrobbel to assist with Paddle for a Cure.

"This is an opportunity for us to be a positive in a negative economy," Wrobbel said.

He's also a big fan of the ocean, having grown up in the Dominican Republic.

Wrobbel will be in charge of publicity and fund-raising events during the July 25 through Aug. 14 trip. Plans include parties on the beach and sales of Deep Rock water with a personal label.

Fader said one goal is to make younger people aware of cancer and to get them involved in the cause. They expect to find this target audience at local surf shops as they travel along the coast.

In addition to working with Wrobbel, Nelson will handle running reports of the trip on Facebook and Twitter. People can follow the adventure on Facebook by typing in "Paddle for a Cure."

"We want to lead our lives in a positive way," Wrobbel said for the group.