The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer presented by Evraz announces $7.8 million raised as 7th annual Ride commences in Alberta
Alberta's largest cycling fundraiser draws 1,741 riders and supports breakthrough cancer research, clinical trials, enhanced care and the discovery of new cancer therapies at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Cross Cancer Institute and 15 other centers across Alberta.
CALGARY, Aug. 8, 2015 /CNW/ - The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer presented by Evraz announced 1,741 riders helped raise $7.8 million for the Alberta Cancer Foundation as the seventh annual Ride commenced in Alberta on Saturday. Funds raised through the largest cycling fundraiser in Alberta allow the Alberta Cancer Foundation to strategically invest in breakthrough cancer research, clinical trials, enhanced care and the discovery of new cancer therapies at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Cross Cancer Institute and 15 other centers across Alberta.
"We are incredibly grateful of the riders, donors, volunteers, sponsors and crew members who have enabled the seventh annual Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer presented by Evraz to be a remarkable success and support our mission to enhance the lives of patients and their families," said Myka Osinchuk, Chief Executive Officer at the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
"Every day, 43 Albertans hear the words "you have cancer." Thanks to crucial Ride dollars, the Alberta Cancer Foundation can continue to power research to speed up clinical trials, shorten recovery times and provide even better care for patients and families. The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer is crucial to achieving the next advancements that will not only improve quality of life for patients and their families, but are also making life better for Albertans facing cancer," Osinchuk added.
In seven years, The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer raised over $54 million for the Alberta Cancer Foundation. The annual event draws thousands of participants and brings together communities of cancer survivors, cyclists and supporters who train and fundraise for months in order to participate in the two-day, 200 km Ride from Calgary to Okotoks and back.
"My life was suddenly impacted in 2014 when I was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer," said Billie Richardson, a first-year rider from Okotoks.
"I finished my last chemotherapy session shortly after last year's Ride and was determined to participate in the 2015 Ride to Conquer Cancer. I am very grateful for all the doctors and nurses who were so compassionate and caring during my treatment. I now hope by raising funds to support breakthrough research, I can have an impact on others who are fighting the disease," added Richardson.
Enbridge is the title sponsor of The Ride to Conquer Cancer, since 2011. Collectively more than 1,700 Enbridge employees, their friends and their families have raised over $6 million for The Ride across Canada. Sponsorship funds donated by Enbridge allow dollars raised by Ride participants to directly support cancer programs at the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
"The Enbridge community of employees, family and friends is committed to supporting an event that is dedicated to raising funds for cancer research, prevention, treatment and enhancements in care. We become involved as cyclists, volunteers and donors and share the goal of a cancer-free future for all Canadians," said Vern Yu, Senior Vice President, Corporate Planning and Chief Development Officer, Enbridge.
"The Alberta Cancer Foundation has a bold vision to save more lives and together we are showcasing how strength in numbers will help improve care and future outcomes for cancer patients here in Alberta. It is an honour to support this worthy event and I hope more people will join The Ride in 2016," Yu added.
Organizers released the dates of August 6th and 7th for the 2016 Ride, and encouraged people of all athletic abilities to participate in the eighth annual Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer.
"Register today at our re-registration tent, visit us online at www.conquercancer.ca or call us at (888) 624-2453," Osinchuk concluded.
Ride organizers expect thousands of supporters to attend public cheering stations along the route. For a map of the Ride routes, visit www.conquercancer.ca
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SOURCE Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer
Sara DelaHaya, Communications Coordinator, 855.338.8362, [email protected]
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