The US Army advertises that they do more before 9am than most people do all day. When it comes to Derek Haines, he’s done more for charities in the last 10 years than most accomplish in a lifetime… and he just turned 75 last October. He and his trekking partner Mike ‘Burco’ Burcombe have taken on a number of challenges to raise money for such causes as Inclusion Cayman and the Jubilate after-school children’s programme. Haines has also run marathons, climbed mountains and tackled volcanoes in order to galvanise supporters into donating funds for other non-profits. The construction of the Jasmine hospice and palliative care building was one project that benefitted from his largesse, and now Cayman Islands Meals on Wheels is to be the beneficiary of his next challenge.
Trekking in France
On 19 April, Haines will be joined by his nephew Tom Carlin as they begin the Grande Randonnée (GR) 70 trek in France. Also known as the Chemin de Stevenson or the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail, it is a Grande Randonnée (long-distance footpath) that runs for approximately 280 kilometres (175 miles) through the French departments of Haute-Loire, Lozère and Gard in a generally north–south direction from Le Puy-en-Velay to Ales. The trek climbs over a total of 8,230 metres/27,000 feet and the highest point is Mont Lozere, at 1,700m/5,575 feet. GR 70 follows the approximate route taken by the famous author and his donkey in 1878. Haines expects the trek to take approximately 14 days, and he and Carlin will carry the baggage and equipment necessary for the journey. Considering the fact that Haines’ main training ground of Cayman is about as flat as a billiard table, managing to reach such elevations is impressive. But, beyond his desire to take on these pursuits for himself, he is driven by the importance of the causes he champions. Meals on Wheels is particularly close to his heart.
Building a home for Meals on Wheels
“I have been a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels for over 24 years,” Haines stated in a press release. “It is not just the food that the volunteers deliver, it is human contact for our senior citizens who enjoy the social interaction. I believe that Meals on Wheels gives a vital service to our aging citizens and gives extra quality to their lives.” His timing for this particular fundraiser couldn’t be more perfect, as the charity has outgrown its present location, and is looking to build its own facility. “Meals on Wheels is so honoured to have Derek Haines trekking in France to raise funds for us this year,” said Jennifer West, general manager of the charity. “As a growing organisation that has been without its own building for a number of years, it has been a challenge to be nomadic. The money raised will allow us to construct a purpose-built facility that will not only house our main kitchen and operations, but will also help address the overwhelming demand for meals, connection and community engagement.” West added that the estimated cost of the new build will be $1.5 million, so she is hoping that people will give generously to support Haines’ efforts. As all the travel costs and registration fees for the trek will be self-funded by Haines and Carlin, every dollar raised will go to the Meals on Wheels building project. The Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, who started Meals on Wheels on the island, will ring-fence the funds. Governor Jane Owen has also agreed to be the patron of the GR 70 challenge.
What makes Haines tick?
The Cayman Compass spoke with Haines as he prepared for his journey, asking what motivates him to take on these sometimes gruelling adventures; how he picks his routes; and what he simply cannot be without on the trail. Why did you choose this route? This looked interesting with the connection to (Robert Louis) Stevenson, and covers an area I haven’t been to before. It has historical interests too. The previous trek along the Pyrenees was on my bucket list, and the Corsican trek is billed as the hardest walk in Europe, so had to be done. I also love climbing mountains. What is the most difficult trek or marathon you’ve done so far? The hardest trek, with Burco, was to Mount Aconcagua (almost 23,000 feet). Burco summited, I was turned back by the mountain police at 22,500 feet as my approach was slowed when I stopped to help another climber. They deemed it too late to continue. A good call, I think. The hardest marathon was in Guatemala – the Lake Atitlan marathon. Beautiful scenery but the route goes up the side of a volcano. Hot, very steep and very dusty. Harsh, but I finished. What are the items you absolutely have to take on any of these endeavours? Good boots, a compass and a camel pack for carrying water; plus a battery charger to keep comms and write a daily journal.
What compels you to support the charities you do? I feel that it is important to support the needy, especially when I have been given the health and fitness to do so. I am lucky, at 75 years, to be able to complete these ventures and enjoy the Earth’s beauty. The unpolluted night sky, when out in the wilderness, is extremely beautiful. To donate, funds can be paid directly via cheque to Meals on Wheels; by direct deposit to Butterfield KYD checking account number 136160977002; or online at www.pledgeasenior.com. Include a note specifying ‘Trek for MOW Building Fund’, to ensure that the funds are allocated accordingly. Questions, inquiries or donor naming options can be discussed by calling 546-8886, or emailing [email protected]. Updates on the trek will be posted on the Meals on Wheels Facebook page at facebook.com/meals.onwheels.58.
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