There are free hugs available in Kelowna today at noon at the Sails, in memory of a loving Kelowna father.
For the seventh year in a row, friends of the late Wayne Cobb gather together on Boxing Day to pay love forward in the form of The Free Hugs movement.
And now it’s not just friends of Wayne but strangers who show up at the Kelowna sails and hug anyone and everyone who want it or need it.
Organizer Angie Clowry admits there have been a few years where she’s been the one who needed the hug from friends.
“We all go through life with the peaks and valleys and when stuck in the low valleys is when I hide the most and when I need others the most and this forces me out of my cave to honor my friend Wayne,” she said. “And I’m not the only one.”
Free Hugs is in honor of Cobb, described as a very loved family man and father of two who died tragically when his motorcycle hit a deer.
According to organizers, Cobb saved his own son’s life that day by pulling him off the back of his motorbike before the impact with the deer. And we know his son is still here to honor his dad’s memory, to do amazing things and change people’s lives.
Wayne’s widow Terry and father in law are supportive and show up for a hug as they feel it’s a great tribute for a man who touched many lives
“Each and every year there is a story of someone who needs a hug whether it is a widower who hasn’t had a hug or healthy physical touch in nine months, someone who is stuck in depression, those with anxiety who avoid family or those living on our Kelowna streets or shelters who come with smiles, appreciation & stories of how the hug line has allowed them to feel love.”
Free Hugs takes place each Boxing Day at noon at The Kelowna Sails all are welcome and encouraged to make and bring their own Free Hugs sign.
