The most compelling stories aren’t just about the rigs. They’re about the people behind the wheel. These tales of resilience, ingenuity and a deep-seated desire to explore the world on our own terms is what connects us as a community. Like this story about a guy who beat cancer then built his dream rig.
Meet Paul Coles, a retiree from Hagersville, Ontario, who is living proof that the greatest adventures can begin after life’s toughest battles. After four decades as a pipefitter and a recent victory over cancer, Paul is now a full-time overlander, exploring Canada in his self-built, one-of-a-kind Toyota Tundra and Alu-Cab Canopy Camper. We’re grateful for the opportunity to chat with Paul about his journey, his incredible DIY build and why every day on the road is a gift.
From the Trade to the Trail
“My father raised and trained Standardbred horses. Before this he was a pipefitter and taught me the same. I moved to Toronto at a young age of 20 and after 40 years as a tradesman I retired. I now overland full time with my rig.”
A Perspective Forged in Adversity
“I never thought that this would happen, like most I guess. At first you’re scared. The unknown. The waiting. But then you accept it. It is what it is. I don’t really like that phrase, but it’s true and I think that once you accept it, it gets a bit easier. Every day is a blessing. I lost one of my best friends to cancer last month. He didn’t have the same chance I did. So now, as life goes on, I just want to make the most of it. To help others, give back and enjoy the outdoors and the lifestyle of being on the road. It’s awesome!”
The Open Road
During his treatment, Paul faced the mental toll that often accompanies a health crisis. His rig, sitting patiently in the driveway, became a beacon of hope.
“These past six months, with my four rounds of chemo and ten rounds of radiation treatments, I haven’t been able to do too much. That’s when anxiety and depression kick in. But every time I went to the hospital for my treatments I just looked around and realized I wasn’t so bad!”
Reflecting on a trip taken just as his health journey began, Paul found solace in the solitude and capability of his vehicle. “Just being on my own for six weeks in my Rig was the best therapy I could ask for.”
Paul’s advice for others facing similar challenges is simple, “Stay positive! Even in the darkest moments and days. Listen to your doctors and their advice. Surround yourself with a good network of friends. You will know who they are.”
The DIY Dream Rig
Paul’s background as a tradesman made a DIY build the obvious choice. He was originally planning a van build, but his vision shifted when he discovered Alu-Cab.
“I was the first one here in Ontario to get the full size truck Canopy Camper. It wasn’t available here yet so I travelled to Quebec to get one. I’m very determined once I set my sights on something that I have to have.”
Paul’s goal was clear from the start: to create something unique and highly functional. “Everything I did, I tried to make either the first, or one of a kind, and multi functional in a very small space.”
From a custom roof rack to a meticulously planned electrical system, every detail was thoughtfully executed. Paul’s best off-grid power tip for fellow Canadians? “Make sure you don’t cheap out on your batteries. And top up before going off grid.” He also advocates for portable solar panels, noting, “when you’re camping in the summer you want to be in the shade not the sun!”
The Reward is in the Giving Back
For Paul, the most rewarding part of his journey has been sharing his hard-won knowledge.
“My knowledge from being a tradesman all my life is valuable. Once I understood that it has been great to be able to share it. Either show people how easy it is or give them the confidence to do it themselves. That’s rewarding and makes me feel good doing it.”
A passionate advocate for the DIY community, Paul believes the industry can do more to support self-builders through workshops and community engagement.
The Destination is Just the Beginning
When asked about his favourite destination, Paul’s answer is immediate: “Definitely Martin Head New Brunswick. It’s an epic destination for any 4WD vehicle.”
It’s also the setting for one of his most memorable moments from the road, a simple pleasure that encapsulates the freedom of his lifestyle.
“You’re going to laugh when you read this, but I had the place to myself, not a soul for miles, so I decided to have a shower out the back of my rig! Having a hot shower when you have been camping for days is a huge luxury.”
A Mantra for the Road Ahead
With a major trip to the East Coast on the horizon, his first since treatment, Paul is more excited than ever. His philosophy, both on and off the road, is rooted in a profound sense of gratitude.
“Yes, well, that’s easy when there are people out there far less fortunate. If you’re able and capable then get out there and do it. I don’t want to be the guy watching YouTube videos, wishing I was doing something outdoors. You have to stay positive, no matter what.”
For Paul Coles, the road isn’t just a path to a destination. It’s a blessing, his therapy and proof how it’s never too late to live your best life.
