The Ride to Conquer Cancer rallies for donations on third annual 'Epic Impact Day' across British Columbia

Riders in British Columbia's largest cycling fundraiser seek donations today in support of life-saving cancer research and enhancements to care for all British Columbians

VANCOUVER, Feb. 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Thousands of Canadians are donating to The Ride to Conquer Cancer today as part of the event's third annual "Epic Impact Day" in British Columbia.  Funds raised through The Ride are put to use immediately supporting life-saving cancer research and enhancements to care for cancer patients in British Columbia.

"We are calling for all Canadians to identify a friend, family member or colleague who is Riding and donate to their effort today at www.conquercancer.ca or by calling (888) 771-BIKE," said Douglas Nelson, President and CEO of the BC Cancer Foundation.

"Last year, there were more than 177,000 new cancer cases diagnosed in Canada and 75,000 Canadians passed away from the disease.  These funds are absolutely vital and are being put to use immediately supporting world-class research initiatives and enhancements to care at the BC Cancer Agency, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, education, supportive and palliative care," Nelson added.

The Ride to Conquer Cancer is the largest cycling fundraiser in British Columbia's history, and in 4 years raised over $39.1 million for The BC Cancer Foundation. The annual event draws tens of thousands of participants across the nation and brings together communities of survivors, cyclists and supporters who train and fundraise for months in order to participate in the annual Ride.

Nelson says the BC Cancer Agency makes remarkable impacts on how patients survive and live with cancer, and cites an urgent need to do more in the areas of research, treatment, care and prevention.

"We are most-grateful to everyone who is generously donating today to our Ride to Conquer Cancer riders as part of this year's third annual Epic Impact Day," Nelson added.

Donations can be made at www.conquercancer.ca or by calling (888) 771-BIKE.

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About The BC Cancer Foundation:
The BC Cancer Foundation (www.bccancerfoundation.com) is the bridge that connects philanthropic support and research breakthroughs in cancer knowledge. As the fundraising partner of the BC Cancer Agency and the largest charitable funder of cancer research in this province, we enable donors to make contributions to leading-edge research that has a direct impact on improvements to cancer care for patients in British Columbia. We fund with the goal of finding solutions. As an independent charitable organization, we raise funds exclusively for the BC Cancer Agency that support innovative cancer research and compassionate enhancements to patient care.

About The BC Cancer Agency:
The BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. For more information, visit www.bccancer.ca

SOURCE: Ride to Conquer Cancer

Media Contact:
Borjana Slipicevic
Communications Manager, The Ride To Conquer Cancer
778.233.9255
[email protected]