NAME: Isaiah Baldissera

Hometown: Port Moody, British Columbia

Carrying torch: Maple Ridge

Torchbearer number: OTR102-041           

Torch Relay Segment: February 8^th, 2010

Age: 22

Torchbearer Story:

Isaiah Baldissera believes the Olympics symbolize perseverance, health and community commitment; three characteristics he believes he personally exemplifies.

Just as Olympians work to overcome obstacles, Baldissera has also had to battle back from several debilitating injuries. Through the process of rehabilitation, he learned about the workings of the body and the importance of safe and effective exercise. Baldissera realized he now had a chance to educate others to help them avoid the same mistakes. In addition to university workload, he took fitness courses and soon became a BCRPA-certified fitness leader. Baldissera now works part-time for the City of Port Moody and Simon Fraser University as a fitness centre supervisor. These positions allow him to teach proper use of equipment, give tips on exercise and provide people of all ages with individualized advice on how to achieve their personal fitness goals. Baldissera feels lucky to have been able to assist hundreds of students and community and family members maintain active lifestyles.

As a student short on time and money, Baldissera feels it has worked to his advantage. He is regularly running to catch the bus, parking in the far corners of campus, stretching between classes and simply using his bodyweight or household items to help him stay active. Baldissera hopes to keep inspiring others as he continues to live actively.

NAME: Jill Ferrie

Hometown: Surrey, British Columbia

Carrying torch: Surrey
Torchbearer number: OTR102-179           

Torch Relay Segment: February 8^th, 2010

Age: 46

Torchbearer Story:

In 2000, Jill Ferrie ran a marathon and it changed her life. After completing the marathon, she was triumphant. However, it was the way Ferrie felt at the starting line that inspired her to live her life differently. In that moment, Ferrie understood that she had not just been training for a marathon she had been training for herself. Her improved fitness was her true reward. Three of Ferrie’s friends saw what her training had done for her and all three became avid runners.

Ferrie will never give up what she has achieved. She understands that being active directly affects her wellbeing. It reduces stress and makes her stronger. Everyday, even if it is just taking the stairs instead of the elevator, Ferrie looks for ways to live more actively. Staying active makes Ferrie happier and improves her quality of life.

Before Ferrie ran her first marathon, she did not have a bicycle. Now she rides every chance she gets. She walks her dog instead of driving him to the park. For Ferrie, life is an adventure and she wants to stay prepared for whatever may be around the next corner. While she may not run another marathon, she has not ruled it out.