For all of his hard work and dedication to raising funds for many local charities, Gilbert Fehr (commonly known as Gibbs) was given a brand new bike Monday.

Steinbach resident Bill Richards says when Fehr came by his house in spring collecting money for cancer research, he noticed his bike was not in great shape. “For years he's been riding all around town collecting for all kinds of fundraising events. I took a look at his bike and said, Gilbert, you need to replace that. So my wife and I talked about it and thought it would be most appropriate to contribute to a new bike for him.”

Richards who has been cancer-free for five years, says the new bike was just a small gesture of thanks to Fehr because he has done so much for cancer research. “I just hope it's an inspiration to others to do the same thing. If it wasn't for people like Gilbert and so many others who raise money for cancer, I don't think we would be where we are in terms of treatment and cure. I say cure because some cancers can be cured and if I can inspire others through Gilbert that's what it's all about today, he's a special guy.”

Fehr says he started raising money for cancer research after losing an uncle to pancreatic cancer in 2009 and an aunt to lung cancer in 2012. While participating in the Relay for Life over the last seven years, Fehr has raised nearly $50,000 for cancer research.

When Fehr was given his new bike says, “It feels awesome. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year's Relay for Life, and I hope they will continue to support me in the months and years to come.”