Valencia recently helped with the CHEO telethon by offering to shave his iconic beard if $15,000 in donations was met.

 

Ottawa’s Pepe Valencia continues to be a bright spot on local social media feeds in times that have not been easy to stay positive throughout.

The husband, father and cancer survivor has watched his Twitter following grow over the last year as he constantly encourages Ottawa residents to find happiness in life’s little things, with a focus on better days ahead.

“Like everybody else, I think I’ve had ups and downs in life,” says Valencia. “My attitude has been always, instead of simmering in those bad situations, just learning from them. The night is always darkest just before dawn.”

Valencia recently helped with the CHEO telethon by offering to shave his iconic beard if $15,000 in donations was met (it was, so he shaved!).

 

Outside of his day job, the Ottawan enjoys riding his motorcycle, playing guitar and indulging in photography.

“Find something that really gives you joy — maybe it’s just watching a TV show, playing guitar — hey, listen, if you have to indulge in bad food, go for the tacos,” Valencia says with a laugh. “Just hold onto something that makes you happy. Don’t give up.”

CHEZ 106.1 is highlighting a Local Legend each month. Anyone who would like to put forth a nomination is encouraged to contact CHEZ Host Amy Volume here.

CHEZ 106.1 and CityNews Ottawa are properties of Rogers Sports & Media.

Filed under: cheo, Local, locallegend, Motorcycle, Ottawa, telethon