BMX Team Hospital Visit

Unit's BMX team made a difference to the lives of sick children after visiting the Royal Children's Hospital Brisbane last month. Fourteen-year-old Ben Shand, who lost both his legs to a rare form of bone cancer, had one wish - and that was to meet Dew Tour Champion Cam White.

White, along with fellow BMX riders Cam Pianta, Nick Cooper, Dane Searls, David Girsch and Tim Wood went along to the hospital, bringing a smile to Ben's face for the first time in a long time.

"All of the athletes headed to the Hospital a bit nervous," says Unit's Al Hardy.

"After meeting Ben first, hooking him up with some gear and hearing his story, all the lads relaxed alot and were pumped on helping out and giving every kid at the hospital an extra smile."

Cam Pianta says the trip was a real eye opener. "Thinking back to all the times I have been injured and how down I have felt during these time it makes you realise the pain we go through is only short term. So many of these kids had much bigger burdens that they will carry for life and they all managed to show such strength and high spirits. Makes you realise how lucky we are to be able to even have the luxury of being healthy not to mention being able to ride and do something we all love."

Every one of the guys left that night with a whole new perspective on life, and were deeply touched by the stories and challenges faced by the children and families they met.

Cam White and Dane Searls took one for the team, so to speak, when they were 'volunteered' to receive a special gift from the kids!

"Getting the chance to swing by the Brisbane Children's Hospital was a great experience and a lot of fun," says Cam.

"Not only did we get to challenge a bunch of the kids in Sing Star and air hockey, we got to put a smile on their faces and hook them up with some sweet Unit gear! After the fun was said and done they hooked me up with a sweet cream pie to the face!! 

David Girsch was the youngest of the team riders to visit the hospital at only 17, he really stepped up and acted as a true role model and inspiration for the younger kids.

"My experience at the children's hospital was eye opening to realize how fortunate I am and to see how brave these kids are. No matter what happens they are always looking on the bright side of things. It was also cool to see what a great job all the staff and volunteers are doing!"

Since visiting the Children's Hospital Unit's BMX team have been super keen to get involved and support those less fortunate. Cam White is having his 4th annual Hillside Dirt Jam which is also a 100% charity event, with all funds raised helping out the pediatrics ward at the Canberra Hospital.

All-round nice guy Tim Wood is discussing conducting riding demos at the hospital, giving the kids a chance to get outside, and has invited Ben to his place to watch some vert riding sessions in the coming months.