The Ride to Conquer Cancer 2014

July 22, 2014

Ted photo_cropped3Guest post from Ted Mason, Production Co-ordinator and Partner, Still Creek Press …

On June 14 and 15th, I participated in my second Ride to Conquer Cancer, directly benefitting the BC Cancer Foundation.  It was a very soggy Saturday morning when I departed Cloverdale Arena with over 2,103 other spandex-clad riders.  Yellow flags dotted the crowd, indicating the cancer survivors riding among us.  It was truly uplifting to witness the impact it has on family and friends, and it is an amazing feeling to hear the cheers of spectators roaring you on to the finish line.

The Ride took 2 days and covered over 220kms from Vancouver to Seattle.  Roughly half way, in Mount Vernon, day 1 came to an end.  Camp was wet and a little muddy, but the beer (along with the odd water to help hydrate) helped to ease the tired muscles.  On day 2, it again was an early start and I was off for another 110+ km ride to the finish line.  The weather was more co-operative on Sunday so I wasn’t constantly battling head winds and sideways rain.  Winding through farm lands, parks and shorelines, the course is a picturesque journey through our amazing Pacific North West.  The finish line was, of course, a welcome site, but more importantly – it was an uplifting feeling, knowing I had made a difference.  This year we collectively raised $9.1 million!

Perhaps it is simply because I am just getting older, but this horrible disease seems closer to home than it ever has been in my life.  It is almost unbelievable how far-too-frequently we hear of somebody we know and love being diagnosed with what seems like yet another case of cancer.  Events like The Ride can change that, and BC is at the forefront of cutting edge research, treatment and advancements.  Having attended a few events leading up to this year’s Ride, I listened first-hand to patients and doctors alike, collectively praising this amazing event.  Last year was my first year participating and the experience completely blew me away.  The encouragement and drive of all the riders is a sensation that’s hard to put into words.

Last summer I was able to go fishing with my Uncle Bill, who has been battling and living with cancer.  For me that made it all worth it – and listening to him speak of the level of treatment he has been receiving is absolutely inspiring.  This summer in late June, my business partner, Cam McClean, and I were again able to join Bill on his annual trip.  He directly credits the exceptional treatment he is receiving from the doctors at the BC Cancer Foundation as enabling him to continue to live a relatively normal life, in spite of the fact he has been battling stage IV cancer for over four years!

In October 2013, I also lost a very good friend in Tom Buchanan, founder and owner of West World Paper.  He waged an extremely tough fight against his cancer, and I am thankful I was able to enjoy extra time with him before he passed away.  He will be greatly missed – and unfortunately we all seem to have stories like this.  Taking part in events like The Ride to Conquer Cancer truly help make a difference, and ultimately one day will lead to a cure.

In six years, The Ride has raised over 60 million dollars for the BC Cancer Foundation.  But as momentous as that is, it will take continued effort and dedication to truly conquer cancer.  I strongly encourage anyone to consider participating in 2015.  The best news is that they have already announced it will take place in August, so sunshine is more likely to be on the agenda.  Although training is required, especially to get used to the saddle, The Ride is not a race.  People of all ages and ability can ride, and help make a positive impact for so many we care about.  To receive more information on the 2015 Ride, or to make a donation please visit my page:

http://www.conquercancer.ca/site/TR/Events/Vancouver2014?px=3310670&pg=personal&fr_id=1514

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