RICHARD Slee's smile had his family in tears.
Huddled together on the corner of the Rowan and Green street roundabout in Wangaratta on Saturday morning, the 61 year old former professional truck driver was beaming as more than 50 large trucks honked and hooted past to honour the man.
Restricted in his wheelchair after suffering six strokes last week which deteriorated his health rapidly, Richard managed to get his arm raised and thumb up to salute the convoy.
It was truly a heartfelt moment of joy for a family who have been doing it tough of late, fearful of losing the one they love.
"This has just been amazing," said son–in–law Johnathan Taylor, who organised the convoy as a Christmas present.
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"I can't believe the turn–out and show of support.
"It's made our Christmas.
"I'd hoped it would bring us all together and put a smile on everyone's face, and it did."
Richard's wife Tracey and daughter Terri, together with other family members and friends, cherished the special moment.
Johnathan said Richard had been a professional truck driver from the age of 21, but was forced to give it up eight years ago when he was diagnosed with cancer in his spine.
It was another challenge for the man who had spent the past decade battling a blood disease – budd–chiari syndrome – which has a life expectancy of three years at most in a majority of cases.
"Seeing Richard in the hospital bed (at Northeast Health Wangaratta) this past week, with his health failing has been really hard on everyone," said Johnathan.
"Today's event though has really been a happy moment," he said, thanking all those who offered their support.
