There are times when Keith Cyr leafs through his book that he has a hard time keeping his eyes dry.
The Parksville author and photographer recently published a book, In Memory of … a book to remember, which details roadside memorials to those killed in automotive crashes.
Now, Cyr is holding a fundraiser to not only raise money so the families of those featured in the book can purchase copies, but also to help prevent the need for other roadside memorials to be constructed in the future.
The road trauma awareness and fundraiser event is slated for March 24, from noon to 11:30 p.m. at the Rockinghorse Pub in Nanoose Bay.
The first part of the fundraiser, Cyr said, is a silent auction, with items such as designer pens, golf packages, dinners, lifetime oil changes and many others on offer. That kicks off just before noon, so those going to the Rockinghorse for lunch can browse the items and make a bid.
The road safety seminar, featuring driving school instructor Steve Wallace, retired RCMP Constable Dave Hay, Joan Parsons of Rid Roads of Impaired Drivers and others, will start at 7 p.m. and will wrap up at 9 p.m., at which time live entertainment with Shawn Carle and the Streamliners headlining and with special appearances by Gerry Barnum and Sherry-Lynn Blanchard on tap.
Cyr said he hopes to raise a minimum of $2,000 with the fundraiser.
He said response to his book has been gratifying — and emotional.
“They say art is determined by if it provokes thought or emotions,” he said.
“I’ve seen people open this book and all of a sudden I notice a tear and I realize maybe they lost somebody in a crash, and then they look up and through the tears there’s a smile of appreciation and acceptance.
“It’s amazing to experience that.”
