Starting Friday, 11 law enforcement and emergency services personnel will cycle over 850 kms across Northern BC until September 21st with Cops for Cancer Tour de North in support of the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS).
Riders will engage area residents with tour stops at schools, local businesses and community events on their journey across the region to raise funds for life-saving childhood cancer research and a national support system for children affected by cancer and their families.
With cancer being the leading cause of disease-related death in children under the age of 15, the Canadian Cancer Society is partnering with first responder agencies for the 22nd Cops for Cancer Tour de North to improve outcomes and change the future of childhood cancer forever.
Funds raised through Tour de North will support life-saving cancer research and national support services such as Camp Goodtimes, an essential program that gives families of children diagnosed with cancer opportunities to enjoy a summer camp experience in a stress-free and medically supervised environment.
“The whole world just falls out from underneath you when they say that your son has cancer,” says John Togyi, a Cops for Cancer volunteer medic and Camp Goodtimes regular with his son Avery. “Camp Goodtimes gives families a break. You have this instant connection with people who have similar experiences. It lets you relax a bit and not have to put up barriers.”
An estimated 1,050 children (ages 0-14) in Canada were diagnosed with cancer in 2021. As the largest charitable funder of childhood cancer research in Canada, CCS has invested $16.4 million toward the cause over the last 5 years. This investment is contributing to improved outcomes as the 5-year survival rate for childhood cancer is now 84%, an increase from 71% in the 1980s. However, 2 out of 3 children diagnosed with cancer suffer long-term or late side effects from their treatment.
“I’m riding for my daughter, Melody, and for all children and their families who need hope and help in dark times” says Leighton Johnston, a member of the Correctional Service of Canada in Prince George riding for the Tour de North this season.
This year, longtime Cops for Cancer supporter Applewood Auto Group has signed on as the presenting sponsor for all four Cops for Cancer cycling tours taking place throughout the province.
Now more than ever, we need your support. To learn more about the program, find an event in your community, or make a donation, please visitwww.copsforcancer.ca.