Chase the Cure

Fin

2009-08-16T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I woke to the hotel phone ringing. I was asked to come down to the lobby to pick up something that was dropped off for me. I was given a book and an envelope by the receptionist. As I walked away, I opened the envelope and found $700.00 worth of cheques to make a difference in the fight against cancer here in Newfoundland.

At 11:30 a.m., we packed up the RV and headed to City Hall, where the final ride-out was going to occur. I was met by Mayor O'Keefe, members of the Dr. H Murphy Cancer Care Foundation, and Senator Rod Zimmer. As promised back in Ottawa on the condition of an August 15 arrival into St. John's, Mr. Zimmer had a cheque for $1,000 for Chase the Cure.

The dedication and generosity this man has shown to Chase the Cure has been remarkable. He has been an inspiration to be around and someone that I will continue to keep in touch with after this trip, and I am excited to see our friendship to continue to flourish!

Also present was Michael, a young boy who has inspired me throughout this trip. He is currently fighting this disease and was when we got in contact back in November. I remember his pure determination, positivity, and courage he showed while dealing with his disease. Throughout my trip I relied on this to get me over difficult days. I was thrilled to have him and his family there. You know those cheques from the morning... well that was a direct initiative by Michael and his family and I thank them so much for being difference-makers. I told Michael when we got to Topsail Beach where the front tire of my bike would reach the Atlantic he would be dipping it!

We rode away from city hall escorted by members of the police here in St. John's. They were absolutely fantastic with their smiles and encouragement for us cyclists as we pedaled the remaining 20kms. I cannot thank everyone enough who came out and made this trip to Topsail with me. It was truly special and something I will always remember. It was not an easy pedal, as the majority of the ride involved a long uphill, but the decent down to Topsail was well worth it!

We got to Topsail and Michael and I traveled down to the beach and the front tire touched the Atlantic. I couldn't wait any longer and the next thing you knew I dove into the Atlantic in my biking shoes, jersey, and shorts and felt the cool Atlantic water all over my body!!! Next thing I knew, Michael dove in, followed by Kenton and Liam two of his close friends who made the 20km ride out with me to topsoil. Soon, there was a bunch of us in the water realizing that we had made a difference with Chase the Cure this summer! The day was absolutely perfect, with a beaming sun, wonderful people, and an end to a great journey.

I thank everyone who has followed the Chase this summer and made a difference in the fight against cancer. As Canadians, we need to continue to be relentless against this disease and keep working harder and harder to find a cure as it hurts the lives of too many. There is nothing saying that you cannot have a lot of fun while you make a difference as we have been to so many wonderful events with wonderful people throughout this summer that have made a tremendous difference. I thank everyone who encouraged me throughout the summer as without you I would never reached our final destination.

To end off, I will go back to one of my favorite quotes of this summer by Lily Tomlin: "I always wondered why somebody didn't do something about that, then I realized I am somebody". I encourage you to continue to be that somebody and make a difference in the fight against cancer and together we will find a cure!

Together We Ride,

Wes Bauer

Without You, it's Simply a Ride...

2009-08-14T07:16:00.001-07:00

I am currently sitting at a cafe overlooking the harbor, where massive cargo ships are micro- navigating their way into the small entrance, which happens to be surrounded by cliffs. It is amazing to think back on all the support, encouragement and the dedication placed into this ride. Was it hard? Not at all. When you have the people we had supporting us throughout this ride, it's easy! Especially, when you are riding for those who are affected by this disease and considering what they are going through. Their struggles are not even comparable to a ride. We were motivated by events, words of encouragement, people's generous actions, horns of cars, hollering out windows, and warm smiles.

Without all of you, this would simply be a bike ride across Canada. That was not how it was ever planned, nor what occurred. We all need to be proud of our accomplishment. Together, we have made a difference in the fight against cancer coast to coast. I only hope that this ride has instilled the thought in all of us that we all can be difference-makers, and if we all work together we can accomplish anything; even finding a cure to this terrible disease.

Now, the thing is that the ride is never over. As a matter of fact we have arranged a "Ride Out" of St. John's to a beach where I will dip the tire into the Atlantic. Chase the Cure was about making a difference in the fight against cancer, and uniting Canadians coast to coast in the fight so we can end this disease once and for all. It was about inspiring Canadians that they can make a difference in the fight against cancer, and truly believing that as Canadians we can find a cure to this disease. For those in St. John's, I encourage you to come down to City Hall at 12 o'clock tomorrow where we will be welcomed by Mayor O'Keefe, and cancer survivors Councillor Debbie Hanlon and Senator Rod Zimmer. From there, we will ride out making a difference in the fight against cancer, and encouraging Canadians that this ride isn't over until we find a cure to this disease!

Deer Lake to Gander

2009-08-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

We are currently in Gander, NL. We have traveled through rain, sun, and have only 300 km. left until we reach St. John's, NL. There has been one particular young man here in Newfoundland that I have found encouragement from, all the way across this great country. His name is Michael, his outlook, positivity and encouraging words he sent me before I began have stuck with me for the entire trip, and I would like to thank him for that.

Yesterday, we traveled away from Gros Morne (where Brodie and I had spent half our day hiking the highest mountain in Newfoundland) to Grand Falls-Windsor which was a 220 km journey. The morning was fantastic, as I had a wonderful tailwind while traveling toward the northern Newfoundland. Yet, I knew that I would eventually have to turn south and fight the headwinds. Shortly after I reached South Brook, the road curved and went south. This meant this fantastic tailwind, that had been basically pushing me for about the first 50 km., was now against me. It grew stronger and stronger as a storm blew in. I was relieved to go down a hill until a rock sliced open my back tire and my tube popped like a gun shot. I quickly changed my tire, not realizing that there was a slice in the sidewall of my tire and got back onto my bike. Again, the tire popped like a gun shot. Frustrated, I pulled the whole tire off the rim and saw the slice in it. I pulled out my cell phone to find no service. So, I changed the tire once again and filled it with just enough pressure that the tire could roll without wrecking the rim. I traveled with the majority of my weight through the handle bars on the front tire. The going was slow but I eventually phoned the support crew and waited for them. Finally, this disaster was over and I placed a new tire on.

Today, we stopped into the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation's Gander Satellite Cancer Center, where we had a chance to talk to some the patients while they received Chemotherapy. There was one woman we met who had been fighting cancer since 1977, but she greeted us with a complete smile. We made sure to hand out Never Alone Bracelets to let those know fighting in Gander they are not alone in their battles and there are many Canadians supporting them coast to coast. It was a neat situation because even some of the patients receiving Chemotherapy reached into their pocket and pulled out donations. Special thanks to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation for allowing us to come and let patients who are fighting know they are not alone.

Newfoundland!!!!

2009-08-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

We woke up at 6:00 a.m. Friday morning for our early ferry out of Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. Estimated travel time was six hours. This boat was full of great times consisting of snoring in a chair, doing laps around the ferry, and playing a healthy dose of Buck Hunter.

We arrived in Port aux Basques around 2 o'clock, yet our In-Ride Coordinator needed to get to a doctor as her ear was in pain. Brodie and I went and grabbed groceries and picked up Ashley her prescription and were off at around 4:30 p.m. I wanted to get at least 60 km. outside of the city so there was less mileage to do toward Corner Brook. We stopped 100 km. down the road, surpassing our expectation. Immediately, while filling up with gas we were met by many people entering and exiting the gas station wanting to make donations. It was actually really neat to see these people in Newfoundland really wanting to make a difference and excited about Chase the Cure coming through!!!

This morning, we awoke to thunder and lightning and heavy rain. We waited out the lightning and thunder until around 10 o'clock but the rain still poured. I hopped on the bike and traveled down the road becoming wetter and wetter as we moved closer to Corner Brook. The weather was most definitely not on my side as headwinds caused the rain to be pushed directly in my face. Rumblings of thunder occurred off in the distance. Overall, it was a long wet day, but we arrived in Corner Brook and are currently sitting in a great coffee house called Brewed Awakening.

OH, NOVA SCOTIA... YOU'RE SO PRETTY!

2009-08-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

We left Charlottetown Monday morning after a delicious breakfeast with the Scrimshaws and traveled toward the Wood Island Ferry. The entire ride reminded me of the western portion of Calgary with high rolling hills. It was really a lot of fun cruising up and down them. We arrived at the Ferry but were unable to get onto it for 4 hours.... waiting in line for a ferry isn't the most entertaining thing I have done this trip. It consisted of sleeping, reading, walking the muddy beach, and sleeping some more.
We arrived in Nova Scotia (above: Welcome to Nova Scotia) around 7 o'clock and traveled 30 km. to New Glasgow for the night.

The next day, we woke up to the beautiful view of a Wal-Mart and traveled 250 km. toward Sydney. Originally, this was supposed to take two days but we arrived in Port Hawkesbury, looked at some beautiful quilts and soon realized that it was still early in the afternoon and another 100 km was reasonable. So, we traveled onward, and let me tell you that Nova Scotia has some pretty good hills. The highest point we reached was Kelly's Mountain which was 20 km. outside of Sydney. It was a long, hot, slog up, with a glorious, long, downhill to follow. We arrived in Sydney realizing that we were a few days early and our ferry was not scheduled to leave until the morning of the seventh.

We looked at our maps and decided since we were in the area we would explore the gorgeous coast line by following the Cabot Trail and heading off for a hike!!!! It was stunning! We traveled along the rugged coast, swam in the Alantic Ocean and a fresh-water river!!!! After that day ended, we spent our night overlooking Pleasant Bay, which I might say was extremely pleasant.

(above: The chairs right by our RV at Pleasant Bay, below: Our RV's parking spot for the night)
Check out some of the pictures we took of the Cabot Trail. It is definitely worth going to see if you are ever up here. Oh yeah, we stumbled upon around 100 scarecrows in a yard and a moose.... Enjoy!

(above: Me and my Scarecrow friends, below: Some odd-looking scarecrow we found that kinda resembled me)
Tomorrow, we will be on the ferry traveling to our very last province!!!

New Brunswick to PEI!!!

2009-08-02T14:28:00.000-07:00

Before I even begin I have to send a huge thank you out to Bill Whalen from Moncton who generously donated $500.00 to fight back against this terrible disease in Moncton. I didn't even know that he had done this until yesterday. Bill is most definitely a character as he completely created our In-Ride Coordinator into a lobster eating machine through the teaching of his specific techniques (at dinner) on how to eat a lobster. We cannot thank him enough for the laughs and making a difference in the fight against cancer.

Yesterday, we rode from Moncton, NB to Charlottetown crossing into Prince Edward Island. It was a hot, hot, day and right after leaving Moncton I was given a pleasant surprise..... a nail in the tire. From there, we cruised on to blow three more tires (I think my front tire is extremely worn...). Yet, the people here kept me going.

There was one particular stretch that really stuck out to us. It only spanned around 8kms but we stopped at a small gas station in a town called Murray Corner. Initially, I thought since we were only 12kms away from Confederation Bridge that the donations for New Brunswick would be wrapping up.... little did I know that they were only just beginning.

The people here were absolutely tremendous! We were given donation after donation, and told inspiring story after inspiring story. The emotions were flying high (that was for sure!) at this gas station and it was definitely a very special part of this trip. People were also pulling off on the side of the road. The neatest part of this was that we decided to do this route to get away from traffic for a little while and cruise along the coastline. One particular gentleman who sought us out later on passed us at exactly the same place where his Nanna passed away from this disease.... the neat thing was the place where he passed me I did not feel like I was pedaling at all........ his Nanna was doing all the work. (Below are two lovely ladies one from Calgary and the other from Murray Corner who made a generous contribution, and the gentleman who lost his Nanna to this disease but stays true to making a difference in the fight.)

After this very, very, exciting stretch, we found the Confederation Bridge--the 13km long bridge that stretches from New Brunswick into our eighth province of this gorgeous country. Right away, we were greeted by an island dancer, who I must say had to be in better shape that I am as she danced all day long in humid weather in a dress!

Today, we were welcomed by the Charlottetown Driving Park. Here, ladies and gentlemen were working extremely hard to encourage those present at the track to by ice cream cones in support of the fight against cancer in PEI. I was so excited by the response everyone here, and their eagerness to make a difference. The two ladies selling the ice cream could not turn around without having another donation dropped into the bin. I would like to personally thank all who were involved in organizing this and the Charlottetown Driving Park for hosting this welcome and encouraging those on the Island to make a difference!!!! I have to admit though that nearly every horse I bet two dollars on came in dead last place.

Following this, we traveled both the downtown and the shores of PEI with Loraine and Brent Scrimshaw showing us this beautiful island and taking us under their wing for the last few days. It was absolutely incredible! I even transformed into Anne of Green Gables at a point. There were long stretching beaches (which had the most lady bugs I have ever seen in my entire life!) with jelly fish stuck on shore due to an ebbed tide.

Right outside of Shediac, NB, we met a man by the name of Roland. He had been traveling from Montreal to Confederation Bridge. He was a fiery man who had a heart of gold! I encourage you if you have a moment to click here and check out the pictures on his blog (which is in french :) )

Moncton you are Wonderful! "Be...in this Place"

2009-07-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

There have been times while writing on this blog that I've worried. I've worried that I do not represent a place to the calibre that they welcomed us and made a difference in the fight against cancer. Moncton is exactly one of these places. If you are ever looking for some of the friendliest, warmest-hearted people in this country come straight to Moncton, New Brunswick. Today, we officially were welcomed by the city of Moncton.

Realistically, I am going to have an extremely tough time leaving Moncton, as this place is really something special. I arrived at the city limits to be welcomed by a police officer on a motorcycle. Right away, he moved into the opposing lane traffic, and completely created a break in the traffic allowing for me to cross over. Little did I know that I would be met by 15 other cyclists that would ride in with me to City Hall. All of these cyclists shared a passion in wanting to make a difference in the fight against cancer. We traveled through the city of Moncton to be welcomed by two particular familiar faces. Both my father and mother were flown into Moncton by Alantic Lottery and the City of Moncton to be present at the arrival into this great city. I had no clue this was happening and was extremely shocked when this occurred. The utter shock and confusion when I first saw them really took me back...... at this point it had been quite some time since I had seen both of them and it was fairly emotional.

From there, we were greeted by Moncton's Deputy Mayor Merrill Henderson, Ian Fowler, and Atlantic Lottery's Brent Scrimshaw. The City of Moncton generously donated $500.00 and the Atlantic Lottery worked together to raise $2,200 to make a difference in the fight against cancer in the New Brunswick jurisdiction. While this was happening, there was a BBQ, along with many spectacular speeches.

I have to send a huge thank you out to the Scrimshaw's, and Fowler's, and all the volunteers of Atlantic Lottery, and the City of Moncton. You each made this welcome a highlight of my trip and I cannot wait to come back and see you all again.

Later that night, we were given a full on guide of Moncton. We experienced Magnetic Hill (wow... you really do travel uphill!) and a giant lobster, with our wonderful tour guide Amy & Ian Fowler. They were fantastic people and definitely showed us how to eat lobster properly. All in all, this city holds an extremely dear part of my heart as they really know how to make a difference in the fight against cancer!!!!!
|

Moncton!

2009-07-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

Rain Rain Rain.... yet somehow I continue to smile. Today was filled with series of heavy showers for around 170kms. At one point I felt a constant stream of water flowing off my face (it was quite nice sometimes as it provided a nice drinking fountain). I would look down and watch the water drip off my body and join the puddles on the road. Semis would pass me straying mist all over me, sometimes misting me so much that I was no longer visible. Yet the entire day all I could think was how lucky I am to be inspired by the people I have been. New Bruinswick has been quite the unique province as we have been sent several stories about those affected by this disease, each and every one of them makes me realize how fragile life is and how I need to appreciate every single day I have on the bike rain or shine.

Today around 110kms into the ride I stopped into the RV just to chat with the team. While we were talking a knock hit the window. We were extremely confused as we were literally in the middle of nowhere. It was a man fully dressed in Military clothing..... initially I was extremely confused but when I went out to greet him, he was the kindest man. His name was Jeff and he had heard about the Chase on the radio and saw us on his way to where is was stationed and wanted to make a donation. We chatted for a while and he absolutely lifted my spirits and gave me more strength to continue on my way.

Now we are currently situated just outside of Moncton and will be riding in with members of the community football club to meet with the Deputy Mayor from the Coliseum starting at 11:15am. I have to send a huge thank you out to the Atlantic Lottery Corporation volunteers for organizing this ride in and the BBQ which will follow. I encourage everyone in the Moncton area to come out to this ride in and make a difference in your community!!!!!!!

Thank You Lavoie's

2009-07-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been absolutely full of headwinds/rain/blown tires and beauty. I woke up in Grand Falls, New Brunswick yesterday to gloomy skies and headwinds. I changed over to my other rim and ate breakfast and was on my way. It was not 10kms before I had blown both my tubes inside the tires and the spare I had replaced it with. I was frustrated with the tire I had put on as it was the same one that blew 6 tubes in Saskatchewan in one day, so I removed the entire rubber and replaced it and was on my way (yet again later than expected).

It was not 20kms after changing my tire I was in a torrential downpour. The shoulders I was riding on were flooded, and I was wet as a dog. Yet, for some reason this is my highlight of my ride yesterday. Maybe because I was in desperate need of a shower and this was the closest I was getting to one.

Yet, as I traveled I kept checking my bike as I was feeling drag. My intial thought was "Oh no, this bike rim is bent, too!" but every time I looked it seemed to be okay. I blew yet another tire so I changed it. In total so far I had traveled 100kms from Grand Falls to a small gas station off Highway #2. It was here I was feeling dog tired and confused.... I really thought my body was breaking down badly and was beginning to worry. I got back on the bike and started moving again when my back tire seized up. I looked, and sure enough it was a bent back tire. Frustrated, I tried adjusting the brakes several times until I gave up and removed my back brakes all together.

This is when the post-storm heat wave swept in. With humidity and scorching hot heat, I was dripping and sweating. I was still hoping to get to Fredericton which was 100kms away. I slogged my way up and down hills, nearly got mauled by three dogs, and traveled through some very interesting countryside on HWY 104.

By the time I had reached Fredericton I was dead exhausted, but I had realized that I had drawn off the Lavoie's, a family who emailed me the night before this crazy day. They encouraged me in so many ways with what Chase the Cure was doing. Yet, I really felt they were an inspirational family to me. They have gone through a lot together when their son was diagnosed with cancer, and forced to loose his right leg above the knee, yet he never backed down. I truly felt what I was going through today was not comparable, in the least, to this. I thought of how courageous this boy is as he is a true hero to me and someone I really do look up to. I cannot thank you enough for contacting me as I truly believe I would not have had it in me to reach my destination due to all the mishaps. Yet, you kept the pedals turning for me and my spirits high.

New Brunswick!!!

2009-07-26T17:55:00.001-07:00

The last couple of days, the weather has not cooperated completely. At times, because of the clouds and scenery, it has almost looked like we were traveling through areas of Lord of the Rings.

Yesterday, I traveled toward Riviere Du-Loup in very strong winds and rain (I like to say they were 30km winds... but i really don't know). They were the worst headwinds to-date. It was a struggle, but I drew off the beautiful terrain, and the Budge family who is following my ride from the United States. They have been affected by this disease and I pedaled through with their help. There was one town where there was a bike route right along the St. Lawrence, and the tide had ebbed out and a sail boat was sitting just on the ground. I must say, it is wonderful to be back in the land of tides :). Yet, due to the weather, I was only able to rack off 100kms, which was extremely frustrating.

Today I moved from Riviere Du Loup into Grand Falls, New Brunswick. Prior even to getting back onto the Trans Canada (which, until this point, I was always able to ride on) confusion set in due to a sign not allowing bikers. According to the maps we had, there were no alternative routes..... yet after traveling on it for a while I hopped off and found the 191 which linked up with the Trans Canada later on where you were able to bike.

We traveled out into very little wind today, yet something just didn't seem right all day long on my bike. I couldn't figure it out. I crossed the New Brunswick border (which was 100kms away from my starting point) exhausted.

Here, i had a quick 20-minute nap, and met up with a guy from Scotland who was also riding across from Vancouver to Halifax. He had some extremely funny stories especially of the mosquito bites he had never heard of before his trip. One night he counted 96 bites which he reacted extremely poorly to. He eventually found After Bite, but had an allergic reaction to this. He was a delight to travel with as we talked for a few hours I had forgotten about my problem from earlier.

Finally, after leaving him and continuing on my way, I found out my problem after traveling down a hill. My back wheel completely seized up, and I discovered my brake pads were more worn than normal and the back rim was bent. It turned out the reasoning behind my exhaustion today was a bent back rim which rubbed on my brakes all day. Yet, somehow I still managed to travel 190kms.

I thought I would put a funny sign on here that we saw. A town name was St-Louis-Du-Ha! Ha! (all of that including the "Ha! Ha!" the town name. We took quite the enjoyment out of this after discovering it :)

Goodnight all for now, and let's keep making a difference :)

Alouette welcome

2009-07-24T20:31:00.001-07:00

Yesterday night, we were welcomed by the Montreal Alouettes at their home game. I would like to send a special thanks out to Olivier Poulin, Shawn Taylor, Allan, and the Alouettes for inviting us to come and encourage fans of the Als to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Prior to the game we were welcomed onto the field with an introduction to a sell-out crowd at Stade Percival Molson. The Alouettes generously donated a replica autographed helmet which will be auctioned off after the ride to gain more funds for the Quebec jurisdiction.

Prior to this game, I had an interview with Bernard from CBC Radio in Montreal. We went through a regular interview, but in turn there was a little bit of a surprise for me as they had phoned my father earlier that day. He encouraged me to keep riding, and it was extremely nice to get this surprise while on-air.

Today we moved out of Quebec City where the ride was situated and into a town called St. Jean-Port-Joli. Tomorrow, we will land either in Riviere-Du-Loup, or cross the border into New Brunswick. It is extremely beautiful to ride through this countryside, as you always have the St. Lawrence on your left hand side and lush lush fields flowing down towards the St. Lawrence. The cycling is great with 8ft shoulders. Stay tuned as we continue to travel along the St. Lawrence and this gorgeous countryside

QUEBEC CITY!!!!!

2009-07-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

Initially leaving Montreal was tough as we had met up with some friends that really sent warm homely feelings through all of us, it was a gorgeous day and we were situated at a beautiful lake! Before we left we were welcomed to Waffles, bacon and fruit it was delicious!!!!

Initially when I started riding out of the Montreal Area I thought my body was extremely exhausted, yet I started to travel through gorgeous country and felt absolutely rejuvenated. Yet from a cycling standpoint, Quebec has been the friendliest place to cycle. All the way from the boarder to Quebec City I was given the luxury of traveling on a 8ft shoulder next to the gorgeous St. Lawrence river. There is a bunch of great cycling routes throughout Quebec called the Route Verte (The Green Route), these travel from city to city through low traffic backroads through gorgeous country. I managed to get onto one of this on my way to Trois Riviere and again today to Quebec city. All throughout these two days I weaved along the St. Lawrence where I was next to massive cargo boats, sail boats, and through gorgeous farm country, and at one point I was under canopy trees covering the road right next to the road. The entire time I was thinking "Wow what did I do to deserve this!"

What a beautiful city Quebec is! I really believe this is the most historical city we have been to yet. As we traveled through the streets of old Quebec you have a feeling you are in Europe, than you see cobblestone streets, extravagant buildings and Blue Quebec and Red and White Canadian flags everywhere. There are statues everywhere along the cobblestone walkways of many influential figures (Such as Ghandi!!!)

Horse carriages travel the streets and there are people crowding the streets walking everywhere.

We are meet up with Michael who is a News Print Reporter in Old Quebec City. We met up at this neat cafe in downtown Quebec and just sat and chatted about everything that has taken place over the last two and half months. He was extremely enjoyable to be around and really conducted a wonderful interview

Today I was listening to Try hard by the Lytics and a line really stuck out to me. "When I cash my first cheque I am going to give it all back." To give a little bit of background information on this group they are from Winnipeg. While I was there they played at a fundraiser and gave Chase the Cure their first cheque that they had made as a group. I was just thinking how difficult that is to do a band "trying to make it". Most of the times all the funds gained are used to make you bigger. Yet this time the members of the Lytics realized how important it is to give back if we all follow the lead of this young group who play phenomenal music will make tremendous steps in finding a cure to this disease. Click here to check out their tunes

Tomorrow we will travel back to Montreal via our RV to be welcomed at the Montreal Allouttes home game. We are most definitely excited about this opportunity to associate ourselves with the Alloutes. But for the meantime I will leave you with me being a flower in a flower pot!

OF MONTREAL!!!!

2009-07-20T05:28:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to blog for the last few days but unable to upload some pictures until now!!! We left Ottawa Friday and traveled through the little bit we had left of Ontario. I let the RV go ahead as I knew they needed a break from "RV Living" and to get out and do something enjoyable. I wrote my directions, and headed off, not even thinking about a map.

Well, let me say that my Google directions completely failed me and I ended up doing an extra 50kms of riding and had great difficulty getting out of Ontario. I went back and forth looking for a road from Clarence Creek, to Clarence about 4 times. I must admit, it was a bit frustrating as I couldn't seem to find the road I was looking for. So, I phoned my brother to help me out. As I was calling him I found a Bike Route sign, and followed it. This was a huge mistake also, as it ended up winding me through country roads (both pavement and dirt) with nothing around me (except my dead cell phone). Now I began to look off in the distance and for buildings that might have a phone. I managed to get to one town and called my brother to come meet up with me. From here on, we managed to travel to LaChute which is just on the other side of Quebec!

After arriving in LaChute we decided to take a road that was longer, but what we thought was less busy. Needless to say, this was an uphill battle at the end of the day. We traveled through gorgeous lake country but the problem was, it was a Friday so traffic was a little greater than we expected. That is when we met a man by the name of Brian Potter! This man completed the cross-country trip in 2006. We spent the night talking about our trips and he hit all the desires I had.... shower, hot tub, and delicious food. I cannot thank Michelle and Brian so much for their hospitality!

The next morning, I started the downhill toward St. Jerome which is just outside of Montreal.

We moved into Montreal the following day, which was not far from where we were! We met up with the Cardins who are some fantastic people

Today we will be traveling toward Quebec City!!!!!

A night with Senator Zimmer and Cst. Josh Kardolus

2009-07-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

I cannot say I have met someone that I listened intently to every word they said, watched their generous actions, and thought about how everything they were saying made sense. This completely sums up my thoughts about Senator Rod Zimmer.

This man went above and beyond anything I could of envisioned for coming to Ottawa. After the media event at Parliament, Rod told us that he wanted to meet up with us later on for dinner. Not only did he organize parking for our RV on Parliament Hill (overnight also), he showed us what Ottawa was truly about. The entire night you could not wipe the smiles off the faces of Brodie, Ashley or I. The stories Rod told were phenomenal. He is such an entertainer. At one point in the evening he even got up from our table to show us some dancing moves (I am planning on utilizing these).

We went out to this delicious buffet downtown Ottawa. You name it, everything was there. I piled food on to four plates and absolutely was stuffed by the end of it. From there we moved to a Irish pub where we talked, told stories, and shared laughs. I don't even know where to start with the stories Mr. Zimmer told (all I know is that he needs to write a book. It's guaranteed to be a best-seller)!

It was getting late (around one in the morning) but Rod wanted to take us into Parliament and show us around. We walked through the doors and were greeting by Josh, who was the guard we met the previous night. Josh and Rod took us to the Red Room where all the bills for Parliament are passed currently. We were given information on the entire building. Let me tell you, a lot of thought went into this building. Josh had many stories to tell.

My favorite story had to be of the Viking faces in the main foyer. When parliament was built it was carefully thought out and beautiful sculptures of faces were carved on the pillars. The request of parliament was that there was 6 viking faces to be carved to represent part of our heritage. The artists worked diligently and asked if they would be able to sign their work after they were finished. Parliament wanted nothing of this even though it would not be noticeable. Well, needless to say at the revealing of all the face sculptures there were two viking carved faces and the two carvers faces within these. Since they were unable to carve their names in they carved their face into the stone. The thing is, there is a law Parliament passed that once something is carved into the stone it cannot be removed, so these carvers faces still exist to this day in the main foyer. The There were pictures taken of us in the Governor General's chair, yet more importantly in Senator Rod Zimmer's chair.

From there Rod had to leave, but Josh (who is one great guy!) said that he would take us over to the Heritage Building to show us around there! We moved from Canada's first Prime Minister's, (Sir John A. MacDonald) room through the first Governor General's room, to the Privy Council room where many major decisions regarding Canada occurred. Every room we walked into sent us goosebumps, and as Josh explained more and more we were just amazed at how much history was involved in this building. It was so neat going through this building in the early hours of the morning with no crowds and a phenomenal gentleman in Josh.

We cannot thank Josh and Senator Zimmer enough for this experience as it was extremely exciting to us.

Canadian Senator Rod A. A Zimmer Welcomes the Chase!

2009-07-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

Senator Rod A. A. Zimmer (or should I say the ever so fashionable Rod Zimmer) is one of the most charismatic men I have ever met in my life. He brings joy to every situation. Right away when I met him in front of the media, he made the feeling of camera's being present go away and brought a huge smile to my face. I went to give him a handshake and he did not accept yet rather gave me a hug. This is when I first saw the quality of this man. His initial question was, "When are you supposed to arrive in St John's, Newfoundland?" I told him it would be August 15th. He smirked and said, "Well, I am going to write a cheque for August 15th for $1,000. If you get there on the 15th you can have it for your cause. If you don't, then the cheque is gonzo." The reason he said this was he felt that he knew no matter what I would make myself get there for the 15th, and I can say that I know I will. Directly after that, he grabbed my bike, and a senator was off riding on Parliament Hill. It was great to see him cruising past the Peace Tower and the staircase leading to Parliament. The other thing that he really stuck with me is the fact that he said he is going to try and make it to St. John's Newfoundland for the end of the ride.

The neat thing about coming to Ottawa to meet Senator Zimmer, was the history he had with my father. Both Rod and my father were diagnosed with throat cancer two days apart. Without accepting the idea of giving up, they had entered a sort of "brotherhood" with each other, and got in contact. Throughout their treatments they talked regularly, and encouraged each other, and held each other's spirits up. Rod was a huge inspiration in my father's fight, and I believe was a crucial part to my father's success in his fight. It was a rather emotional experience for me to spend this time with this remarkable man and I am ever so grateful for everything he did for our family. Today Rod is also healthier than ever and has an unbelievable appreciation for life.

Last night, we traveled to Parliament to see a light show that takes place during the summer. Here we met a guard just outside the Senators' building. He talked passionately about Canadian history, and former prime ministers. One thing that was really neat was he told us how these buildings were haunted and he attested to seeing one of the ghosts in the building he was in. Below are some pictures from the light show (they also talked about the history of Canada with images they placed on the centre Parliament Building) as well as the Centennial Flame.

Oh Boy! We're coming Ottawa... There are just some ditches...

2009-07-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we have managed to weave our way through back roads from Toronto to the nation's capital of Ottawa. I will set out a little bit of a recap:

Sunday, we left the Greater Toronto Area with some advice given to us by a fellow cyclist we met up with on the road. He told us it was in our best interest to take Highway 11 Northbound. Initially, it seemed like a great idea, with its dreamy 8 ft. shoulders. Soon, however, those 8 ft. shoulders shrunk and we were stranded on a 1 ft. shoulder with rumble strips. This is not the most comfortable ride. We decided to pull out the map and check out the back roads. For any cyclists moving out of the busy southern Ontario toward Ottawa, I highly suggest doing this. The people on these roads were extremely friendly. Many pulled over to show their support, and again there were a lot of waves, honks, and thumbs up out of the sunroof! I think the highlight of this day for me was when a man who is in the Military stopped with his wife to show their support.

The following day, I had set a goal to reach Ottawa. Through back roads it was nearly 230 km., which I thought was completely possible. Especially, with the low amount of traffic that flowed through the roads we were taking. These roads were absolutely stunning, lush forests that you could smell while you were biking. We were around 30 km. outside of Calabogie which is a small town about 80 km. outside of Ottawa. My brother decided since the roads were great he was going to hop on a bike and ride with me for a bit. We were cruising along having a great time. Little did we know that Ashley (the in-ride coordinator and tentative driver at this point) had a massive scheme set up to get public attention.

Brodie and I were climbing a hill when we heard an alarming noise.... a mean honk on the horn from the RV trying to attract as much attention as possible. I turned around to be frightened about what was unfolding before my eyes. Ashley's media scheme was in full force with the RV at a 45 degree angle, which happened in this case to be the angle of destruction.... I came back down the hill to a terrified media girl who was completely stunned. We removed her from the RV to ensure we could properly pitch this event to the public. This is where her plan really took off, and cars would stop and say something like "Seems like you fell a little short. Should have cut it closer." We even felt like at points we should have offered the public popcorn, as they were very entertained. We definitely garnered the attention. We had one tow truck come and he claimed it was too complex for him to pull out. That's when we met someone who we cannot thank enough for what he did:
Hans Van Den Hun, a 69-year-old Dutchman with a heart of gold.

Right away he was problem solving this puzzle, asking us questions about how full the fresh water was, how full our septic was, how much gas was in the RV, etc. He was quickly calculating the proper angle required for successfully pulling the RV out. We waited for a kind police officer to meet us to barricade traffic off so Hans could get our RV to safety.

His massive tow truck completely pulled our "home" to safety. It came to payment time, and normally these specialty case tows would cost upwards of $500. Hans told us everyone needs money to make a living. He claimed, "I need money to live, yet there are times in life where you just need to give." He also told us what we were doing was something close to his heart as he is a cancer survivor himself. That is when I tried to pay the man and he claimed that our money was no good to him and he was just grateful everyone was okay and thanked us for what we were doing. Then he was off with a sound of his horn and wave as he passed us. We cannot thank Hans enough for his generosity and heart of gold. If you ever need a tow and you're near Renfrew, call 613-432-5332 and Hans will take tremendous care of you!

Now, since this publicity stunt occurred, we were forced to spend the night Calabogie. We have to send a thank you out to Bob for waving the fees for us to stay in his campground! This morning we woke and traveled through backroads again straying away from ditches! Today's highlight had to be a family in a van who hollered out the window as they passed and then stopped ahead and clapped as I passed them. They made my day, and I cannot thank them enough!!! We're now in Ottawa safe and sound with an intact (not crumbled) RV :)

What a Wonderful World

2009-07-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

Before I even begin I highly encourage you to click here to watch the TSN feature on Chase the Cure

There are times in your life that you feel so alive, you feel the energy, happiness, and gratefulness for life running through all of your body. You take every moment and look and see what a great country we live in, the people, the scenery and the true beauty of our world. A lot of the time this is lost in rushing from place to place, deadlines, and stress. Initially my introduction to Toronto was not close to that great! I entered the city and was walking around downtown to be pooped directly on the head by a seagull.... little did I know this was good luck considering the great response I received from this city (Below is a picture right after I got pooped on)

Today was a extremely important day to Chase the Cure. We were being welcomed at the Toronto Argonaut Home game during the Halftime show. Yet before we were scheduled to meet up with a group of individuals raising funds for Chase the Cure. These individuals started a program 5 years ago called CFL Fans Fight Cancer . These individuals collectively raised over $300 for Chase the Cure through a 50/50.

Let me say something about these individuals each and everyone of them were emotionally empowered to make a difference by those close to them effected by this disease. One man in particular was spoken of named Garry, while they talked about him you were able to see the impact this man left on these individuals. You could tell that every member here in Toronto of CFL Fans fight cancer carried Garry's legacy and passion for fighting back against this disease with them. You were able to tell the quality of a person Garry was, and still is as I truly believe he has taught these people so much about life and making a difference that a part of him lives in everyone there! I personally was able to see the passion Garry carried when it came to fighting cancer and decided it was a honor to dedicate the ride out of Toronto to a true difference maker in the fight against cancer. As I travel I will rely on Garry to give me the strength to continue to pedal towards Ottawa and carry the stories of these people I met with me as I travel.

From here we traveled into the beautiful Roger Center where we were being welcomed by the Toronto Argonauts. I have to say again I was shown complete class by this organization, Steve Whidden organized the Chase the Cure presentation on behalf of the Argo's and did a great job. On cue I rode my bike right onto the field of the Skydome and was welcomed by clapping and cheers for this ride that so many have made possible. I was met by Bob Nicholson President and CEO of the Toronto Argonauts and a rather large Cheque for Chase the Cure in the Ontario region of $2,500, and a autographed Toronto Argonaut helmet which will be auctioned off to raise more funds for the Ontario district to fight back against this disease! I cannot thank the staff of the Toronto Argonauts for all they have done for Chase the Cure and wish them nothing but success in the 2009 season! The argo's and the CFL Fans Fight Cancer just go to show how large of a family this league actually is, everyone competes extremely hard for the Grey Cup but when it comes to something like cancer we drop our colors and compete together!

Yesterday was a great day as we traveled from place to place throughout Toronto completing media interviews. One thing that showed me about every interview we had was how passionate the host was about Chase the Cure, they truly believed that we would find a cure to this disease as Canadians if we just kept making a difference. We ended the night off on the LeDrew Live talk show. This was the first time I was to be on a live talk show. I was really excited about having the opportunity to spread the word of Chase the Cure with LeDrew. Honestly though, this was one of the toughest interviews to date. There was this little ear piece in my ear which the producer of the show was talking to LeDrew telling him what to ask me as I was answering my questions. It was tough to focus on what you were saying while you were thinking about the next question. Yet somehow LeDrew kept me in a comfortable setting and focused allowing me to maintain focus and conduct a great interview I cannot thank them enough for this opportunity to spread the word and encourage Canadians to make a difference (a picture of LeDrew is shown below).

The past few days have been days where you appreciate everything. To start everything off we arrived in Hamilton and were absolutely taken care of by Karen, Nikki, Stef and Bella. All of these individuals really made our stay in Hamilton extra special, cookies, breakfast, lunch, and great conversations sum up some of these experiences we had while staying with these individuals. Not only did they do this but prior to us arriving they organized a triathlon in support of Chase the Cure titled "Tri and Make a Difference". They most definitely made a difference in creating this. We cannot thank them enough for their hospitality and kindness they showed towards us.

Goodnight for now and keep making a difference as we will find a cure to this terrible disease

A Tiger-Cat Welcome!

2009-07-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats created an absolutely wonderful welcome for Chase the Cure today! Right away, as soon as I arrived, I was met by a familiar face who came out of the dressing room to greet me: Kevin Glenn. What a class act this man is. I cannot talk enough about this man and his great characteristics; he is a true gentleman! Immediately after cruising into Ivor Wynne Stadium Nick Setta, the kicker of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, came up and was thrilled with what I was doing. I began to realize that this team is really composed of fantastic people!

After watching a little bit of practice, I was asked to speak to the entire football team. This, I have to say, was one of the most nerve racking situations I have found myself in thus far. Yet, all of these players made a difference and encouraged me while I spoke. The main message I tried to send to them was that they can really make a difference in this fight. They have so many people, of all ages, looking up to them and whatever they want to accomplish they can. I told them that anyone can be affected by this disease, and gave them examples of a 4-year-old, a 20-year-old, and a 50-year-old, a football player (...and many more) and explained that this disease is everywhere! I tried to get the point across that we can band together as members of Canada to encourage everyone to make a difference and end the pain once and for all. Following this, Chase the Cure was given a cheque for $1,500 from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and an autographed helmet which will be auctioned off to benefit the Ontario portion of the funds to fight back against this disease.

It was extremely neat to break down the practice at the end by being surrounded by the entire team and asked to yell Tiger-Cats on three...... and having these men follow. Again I cannot thank all of the players, and staff of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats enough. A few names stick out in particular: Scott Mitchell, Shawn Burke and Erin who all set up this wonderful event for Chase the Cure. I wish the Tiger-Cats the best as they travel to Vancouver to play the BC Lions this week!!!!!

LAKE HURON BEAUTY

2009-07-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

For the past few days, I have been cruising along the shores of Lake Huron. I am astonished by this province's beauty. If there is no lake around you (which is rare) there is lush forest, marshland.

We left Sault Ste. Marie a few days ago and traveled one of the scariest stretches to date for 100km until we re-routed down HWY 6. Before this there seemed to be a never ending stream of semis on a one-lane road with a foot shoulder all against a headwind :). After turning south to go toward a ferry, we traveled a gorgeous island of Manitoulin Island. We weaved in and out of shorelines of Huron and eventually reached a small town called Little Current. I was excited as for up to this point a headwind was blowing directly towards me and I had to veer left. But sure enough after traveling around 15kms towards the South Baymouth Ferry I was struck by a heavy headwind and terrible roads. By then, I was 150kms into my ride and a little tired, but kept trudging. At one point I unclipped my pedals and draped my body exhausted over the handlebars. Yet again I was encouraged by a honk, so I proceeded to clip my feet back in and continue to the ferry! We were lucky enough to catch the 5:30pm ferry and caught up to many vehicles who had passed me earlier in the day (this was somewhat satisfying).

How exhausted I was when I reached the ferry can only be displayed in one picture. This is me sleeping on the cafeteria table (I slept here for an hour and half, and the ferry ride is two hours.... I managed to see a little bit though :) ) The people who were eating behind me told me when I woke up I was snoring....

The ferry took us to a town called Tobermory. This small town was lively as can be; live music, beautiful boats, and people everywhere. What we didn't realize was how close we were to Toronto.

The next day, we traveled from Tombermory, ON, to Owen Sound. The unique thing about all the towns around Lake Huron is they have all these old style buildings everywhere! Some even are covered in vines that have traveled up over the summer!!!

Another thing I have noticed about Ontario is that no matter how busy the roads are, people are excited about this ride. Even just today I must have had 50 honks, and I have found that the people of Ontario utilize their sunroofs very well by throwing a thumbs up through the roof or a wave. My ultimate favorite was a lady who leaned out of her window and clapped. This brought a smile to my face as I thought about how it's really not me doing this (as I am not capable of completing a task of this magnitude), it's those who have inspired me along this ride.

Today, we made the stretch from Owen Sound to Barrie, ON, which is just outside of Toronto. Again this was a gorgeous stretch right along Huron with some gorgeous views to distract us. Yet, since it was Sunday, the traffic was crazy, with bumper to bumper cars (and a small shoulder, yet again)!!! We will be here for the next while to be welcomed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Toronto Argonauts. I cannot wait!!!!! Make sure to watch the Brian Williams Feature on Chase the Cure on TSN (right before friday night football) on July 10th!!!!

So long for now. Have a wonderful NIGHT :)

Sault Ste. Marie

2009-07-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

Sault Ste. Marie now has a special place in my heart, after meeting some phenomenal people in this city who made our stay extremely special. There were several highlights, including walking around the boardwalks next to the river downtown, and setting up to gain donations at the Canada Day Festival.

On our arrival day, I was approached by three lovely girls who were excited about what we were doing with Chase the Cure, and generously donated. We further chatted about the Sault and the uniqueness of this city.

The next morning we woke up early and traveled downtown to see what this city had to offer. It had an older downtown with some beautiful buildings. One thing I realized was how much this city loves its pizza. It felt like I was seeing more pizza restaurants than people within the city! Just off the St. Mary's River we found this huge table with two chairs...... I sat there for the remainder of the morning waiting for my lunch date (She never showed).

Later that day, we went back to the coffee shop to work yet again on some of the logistics of the Chase. Here we met a girl by the name of Alex. She was one of the kindest, charismatic people we have on this trip, to date. After hearing what we have been up to this summer she invited us to a get together with a bunch of her friends. We arrived to meet a mass of wonderful people, and played Cranium into the early hours of the morning.

We woke up the next morning and traveled to set up at "Celebrate Canada" (the local Canada Day festival). Here we were met by Summer, the festival's organizer. She was an absolutely wonderful woman. We set up our RV right next to the water. Unfortunately the weather was not the best on this Canada Day, and the rain had different plans. Yet, before the skies opened we met many generous individuals of Sault Ste Marie. My favorite couple that came up to us were this gentleman and lady. After giving an extremely generous donation the guy proceeded to rap to us. It most definitely brought a smile to my face as he was extremely funny.

One unique thing we started to do was to have those who have been affected by cancer or lost a loved one to this disease to write their names on the handle bars of my bike to take them on this journey with me. This brought a lot of emotion to those who wrote the names of those they loved and have passed from this terrible disease.

After this, we traveled to Alex's friend's cottage (who we had met the night before at the games fiasco night). It was here we were told to look for this pig to find her cottage. And on this night, we met yet another group of friends. We swam in a misty Superior, and had a delicious supper. I cannot thank these people enough for their generosity and letting us into their homes.

I am a firm believer you can tell how great a person is through their friends. While sitting at a coffee shop in Sault Ste. Marie, I met Alex and Paul who were two young individuals beaming with life. We got talking, and I told them what I was doing. They immediately told me of a girl named Victoria, who is currently fighting in Sault Ste. Marie. By the way they talked about Victoria, you could tell that she had greatly impacted their lives, as well of the lives of others I hadn't yet met. For these reasons, I would like to dedicate my ride out to Victoria, as I travel you will be my inspiration to keep going. I have written your name on the front of my handlebars along with others that have been effected by this disease as a reminder of the strength and courage you have shown in your fight.

Together We Ride.... with Victoria

Ontario Beauty!!!

2009-06-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

Northern Ontario is one of the most stunning scenic roads I have ever ridden in my life. It is composed of large climbs, cliffs, endless water and a lush forest. Every where you look takes your breath away, whether it be the vibrant yellow, orange, and white wildflowers clashing with the greenery, or the creeks, waterfalls, and beachfront on the side of the road.

On sunday we left Winnie the Pooh's birthplace and traveled southeast through Lake Superior Provincial Park. The normalcy of headwinds continued on my stretch to Wawa. There was a goal in mind reaching an oversized goose. As you can see, after trudging against the headwinds I reached this massive bird (I'm the baby gosling in the picture :) ) .

While at the Wawa information center (home of the large goose) we were approached by a gentleman who was from Calgary and excited about what we were doing. He generously donated $40 dollars to the cause! After refueling myself with water, and consuming food we headed out again. We were stopped about 2kms due to a sign about Magpie Scenic Falls.... we couldn't pass this up... below is what we saw!

Finally, we returned back to the main highway after this detour and continued on our way. It was not long until we reached a place I hope I can return to in my lifetime "Old Woman Bay". It contained a warm sand beach that stretched for kilometers, with a massive cliff shoreline on the left side (as you can see in this picture). It was nice to just sit on this beach and think about the inspirational people we have met on this trip, and what we have accomplished together as Canadians thus far. We definitely had urges to sleep here on the beach but realized, that would leave an overly large day for today so we continued on!!!!

We stopped at another scenic beach on route and met up two kind gentlemen tripping with a young Winnipeg artist by the name of Sheena Grobbs, en route to Toronto. They were an absolute delight to meet up with and I highly suggest you to visit Sheena's website to listen to her tunes by clicking here!

We ended 80km outside of Sault Ste. Marie last night and slept through a rainy night. I woke up this morning excited about reaching this city, and traveled through more gorgeous landscape. We stopped at a beautiful waterfall, and met up with a family road tripping in honor of their grandfather who passed of Leukemia this February. We conversed for a while, and I continued to pedal thinking about this woman's father and how he continued to inspire me to ride. I thought about how easy this trip is to do when you are inspired by such wonderful people who are fighting for their lives.

Keep your eyes peeled for another video, as I am currently working on one!! :) That is all for now. Have a wonderful day!!!!

Home of Winnie the Pooh!!!!

2009-06-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

I have found Pooh!!!!! His home lies here in White River, Ontario!

Here is a little background information on how Winnie the Pooh was inspired here in White River:

"White River, Ontario - World-famous children’s character Winnie the Pooh was inspired by an orphaned bear cub, which was purchased from a trapper at White River by Captain Harry Colebourn, during WWI. He was a veternarian and his troop train had stopped at this Northern Ontario town enroute from Winnipeg. Colebourn named Winnie for his home city (Winnipeg) and took her on to England as his troop's mascot. Before shipping on to France, he left Winnie at the London Zoo where she was discovered by author A.A. Milne’s delighted son Christopher"

It was a rather large day today. We traveled through the gorgeous land of the HWY 17 along Lake Superior. This was one of the most beautiful areas I have been to, yet contained some of the most difficult terrain. Up and Down could be the category for today. I must have ascended and descended at least twenty large, large, hills today. Thank goodness for those who passed honking their horns and waving in support, or else I might have keeled over on a hill and rested for the remainder of the day. I was exhausted when I reached Marathon (100km before White River), and was thinking about stopping until I realized Winnie the Pooh's home was only another 100kms! Thank goodness, because we found this lovely oversized quad on the side of the road...... you should have heard the engine, I think it's an Arctic Cat 500cc (I think.....).

I also got to ride their bright yellow snowmobile!!!!!

I also forgot to mention that the day before, Brodie and I found Canada's largest suspension bridge.... it's pretty long; hence Canada's longest and most expensive ($18.50 a walker). It was built by a father-son duo just outside of Nipigon.

All in all it has been an adventurous past few days and we look forward to the next two days as we continue to travel this gorgeous province. I will leave you with one more scenic picture from where we slept last night.

Goodnight for now. It's not as scenic tonight as it was last night as we are behind a Robins Donuts... but the plus is it's open 24/7.

For Warren

2009-06-26T11:52:00.001-07:00

Before I began this ride, I spoke at the Never Alone Luncheon in Winnipeg. I asked the crowd “Why do we Chase?”. I followed up by answering several different reasons. One was, “We Chase for Warren, who has fought this disease continually for several years.”

Warren is someone who has been in my life for a long time. I see him as an absolute inspiration. I have thought about him several times on this ride, his attitude, his determination, and his goal to live his life to the fullest and just get onto that Harley and ride.

Yet, Warren is currently battling extremely hard against this disease, and with me every pedal stroke of this ride. I find courage, and strength in Warren's fight, as he is a true hero, someone who has inspired me to go coast to coast, and I only hope I can inspire him to keep fighting.

Last night, I traveled to the Terry Fox Memorial, where Terry finished the physical portion of his run but not the campaign of the Marathon of Hope. It really grounded me and reminded me why I am doing this trip. The entire time while I was at this memorial I was thinking of Warren and so many others that have been hurt time and time again by this disease. I looked at the memorial and read "Somewhere the Hurting Must Stop." I truly believe this. On this trip, I have realized a few things about this disease. Firstly: There are so many people supporting those who are fighting coast to coast. Secondly: there are many passionate Canadians coast to coast working extremely hard to find a cure.

I would like to dedicate the next few days of this ride to Warren a man who has inspired me to do this ride; a kind, generous, and loving man. Warren I look forward to you pushing the pedals with me over the next few days....

Together We Ride.... With Warren.

A Bug's Paradise

2009-06-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

Well there were a few things we learned from Dryden to Thunder Bay. First, our cell phones and Internet cards do not work in Northern Ontario. Secondly, the heat and humidity in Northern Ontario is incredible. Thirdly, there are a lot of black flies, horse flies, and mosquitos. Yet somehow, Northern Ontario enchanted me with its beauty.

Riding up and down, and up and down through hills of gorgeous scenery, lakes, marshes, and cliffs welcomed me throughout this trek of the Canadian Shield. The shoulders were not the greatest so the Chase vehicle followed closely behind the entire trip.

Ignance, which is 120 km outside of Dryden, has an exact population of 1,501. It was funny to see because all population signs we have seen this entire trip were always ending in zeros or fifties, and this sign had been custom crafted to add that last, single, person. I felt I would add another three bodies to the population for about an hour and catch a nap.

We spent the first night in a town called Upsala. The town consisted of two gas stations, and a set of train tracks. The sleep was miniscule due to mosquitos buzzing around our ears and the slapping of walls, windows, arms, legs wherever they landed. We woke early to make our trek into Thunder Bay! I was convinced by my trusty brother Brodie and Ashley that the alternative route was not shorter and I should go another route. I was glad to take their advice but I later found out the reasoning behind it: a gorgeous waterfall called Kakabeka Falls, 30 km outside of Thunder Bay. I was rather pleased to take the detour to see this!

Tonight, we are staying at a the house of the Murdoch's, who are an extremely generous family. Their cabin is right on the shores of Lake Superior and is absolutely stunning!!!! I hope to have Internet over the next stretch, but I have been told there isn't much between Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie which is 800 km away!!!! Stay tuned to find out!!!

Goodnight for now!

Kenora and Dryden: Poker and Generosity

2009-06-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

We pulled into Kenora on Friday evening, after a day of pedaling through the ugliest road conditions yet, and were immediately welcomed into the home of our good friends, Gene and Ollie Dunn. They let the entire Chase crew stay at their beautiful cabin on Lake of the Woods, and made sure I was getting my protein by feeding us, and feeding us, and feeding us. When it wasn't meal time, it was snack time. Needless to say, they were gracious hosts that took very good care of us! I think Ollie just wanted to make sure I didn't waste away... ;)

On Saturday, we all boated out to Smith Camps for a Poker Tournament that was organized for Chase the Cure by Ollie and Gene's neighbour, Murray Genik. He did a phenomenal job! At the end of the night, or should I say morning, (it went until after 1 a.m.!) 55 players were whittled down to two, thanks to Ollie and Ashley, and it proved to be an incredible time, as well as an incredible fundraiser! Murray managed to raise over $5300 for the Chase and gave out some amazing donated prizes! Thanks to everyone who came out to support! Special thanks to Heather who helped Murray with the event as well as all the Smith Camps staff. All of you have been a part of a great cancer-fighting fundraiser that will see all the profits going to assist cancer services at The Lake of the Woods Hospital in Kenora.

One amazing thing about being a part of these fundraisers is that we get to meet so many incredibly generous people, and this event was no exception! While there, we met Clyde, the Sales Manager at McKinstry Chrysler in Dryden, ON. He was having a great time, laughing and joking while playing at Ashley's table toward the end of the night. He started talking about his admiration for the Chase and showed a lot of enthusiasm for the cause. Soon, he was mentally arranging our arrival into Dryden, and had big plans for us. Little did we know what was in store!

By the time we got to Dryden, he had contacted a local radio station, joined forces with his coworkers to make a combined donation and buy t-shirts, set us up with lunch from the local Dairy Queen, and a complimentary room at the Best Western! It's people like Clyde that make this ride so special, because he didn't stop there. Later in the evening, we were walking and he happened to drive by. As it turned out, we were heading to the same destination! So, Clyde offered to give us a ride, and ended up buying our meals. Clyde, we can't thank you enough! You've shown a tremendous amount of generosity and you are an inspiration to others who want to embrace the Chase in their own ways.

If Kenora and Dryden taught me anything, it's that you don't have to be a big city to have a big heart. These past few days have been a definite highlight! I'm very excited to see what the rest of this journey has in store.

But I'm not gonna lie, for now, all I can think about is my fluffy pillow... Good night, Ontario.

You Never Ride Alone On This Trip

2009-06-20T13:07:00.001-07:00

One thing I have learned on this trip is no matter what, you never ride alone. Coast to Coast there is always someone I think about on my rides reminding me why I decided to go out and journey into a trip of this magnitude. There have people I have met along the way that do extraordinary things right as I finish my ride for the day, and they inspire me to continue to pedal where I think about them, constantly. Today was no exception at all. I am ever so grateful for a woman who came into my life, many years ago, when my father first returned to be the President and CEO of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Sharon has always been there in true Blue spirit, volunteering her time. Yet, the amount she volunteers qualifies her as full-time staff. She has watched me grow from a young child into who I am now. Over the last while this woman of super-hero characteristics life has been turned upside down by being touched by cancer. Tests, blood work, what ever it be does not stop her from volunteering with the Bombers. I was thrilled when director of Player Personal John Murphy came up to me and said he wanted to do something special for Sharon. John and I came to a decision that the ride out from Winnipeg to Kenora would be dedicated to Sharon, and John would donate $100 for every year she volunteered with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (Sharon has entered her 11 season with the big blue). Going into the presentation I could not believe the generosity of this man, but now the staff of the Bombers know Sharon has to volunteer 25 more years to meet the generous donation of John as he was unable to figure out how many seasons Sharon had participated in.

As I stated, people who do extraordinary things drive me to continue to pedal. In true fashion, I pushed myself a day ahead while riding out with Sharon, as she was truly there in spirit. She made the pedals feel light even though a headwind was present. She made my heart feel strong, and most of all she made me feel alive. I cannot thank Sharon enough for the strength she gave me today as we did hit some very difficult roads as they were in poor, poor, condition. Construction created a 20 km stretch of sand/gravel on a two-way traffic road. It was here, that I had my first fall biking due to deep gravel, but it was Sharon that picked me up and put me back on that bike and had me continuing.

If it was not for her being my inspiration today I truly believe I would not have reached my destination. I reached Kelowna exhausted, but I reached it with a proud feeling that I was able to dedicate my ride out to a one of a kind woman.

I told Sharon I would take pictures of the 220km stretch of road we rode together, so below are a few pictures of what we saw!

Together We Ride with Sharon!!!!!!!! :)

What a Day!

2009-06-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

I have had this blog written for the last couple of days but have not had an opportunity to post it until now!

Today I can say was not an average day for Wes Bauer. I woke up at home in Winnipeg to cameras, and equipment being hauled into our living room. Immediately our house had been turned from a living area, to a studio. Lights, wires, monitors and two cameras. The reasoning behind all of this was we were being visited by a very special person named Brian Williams. He has interviewed many celebrities, athletes, you name it he has probably interviewed it.

Growing up around football I had always seen Brian Williams on CBC sports, and now TSN. The features he commits himself to are always filled with passion and well executed by himself and those involved. There was excitement inside of me knowing that I was going to be interviewed by Brian Williams and I would have the opportunity to share my story, and the stories of so many I have met on this trip while encouraging Canadians to make a difference to end this disease. Brian and his crew had prepped phenomenal questions and over the hour or so interview with my father and I, you were able to see why this man is well known for his features! Everything he did was done to his standard, he did not have a problem admitting to himself what he did was not up to his potential and would just ask to do it over. One thing that was great about this man was how excited he was to be there interviewing us.

From there we were off to the St. Boniface area for the last few shots with TSN. Karen the producer for this feature was there. I must say that I am continually impressed by the people TSN has hired for this featured, they all have carried themselves to be great people. Every single time I meet a camera man, sound man, producer, interviewer I am astonished at the quality of the person. This time was not an exception at all, again I was pleased to work together with truly great people. We had shots of my father and I and a short interview with Karen! I must admit that one of my favorite parts was how the sound guy could hear every word a group of school children yelling "I want to be on television". He would just smile and tell me what they were saying and say these responses of these kids keep becoming cleverer and cleverer

After the interview I was off to the Chase the Cure Bud N Spud! This event was put on by Nicole Laping who serves as an absolute inspiration to me on my ride I cannot say enough great things about her. Her enthusiasm to make a difference in the fight against cancer, and enjoyment of life is something I truly admire. It was extremely neat for me to meet her and see the similarities between her and her father who worked at my High School.

This event was tremendous, there were so many different realms of friends present, which allowed for friends whom have not seen each other for many years to re-connect but also for those who did not know each other to become aquatinted! It was really neat to see many Chase the Cure t-shirts walking around the corridors of the Palimino Club. The event hosted a 208 people and through draws, and ticket sales raised $3,500!!!!! This is another tremendous effort by a community of people coming together to make a difference. I cannot thank Nicole Laping, and her family for coming up to the plate to organize this event, it was a extreme success and something the Chase will carry as a memory across the country sharing it with many!

WOW WOW Winnipeg

2009-06-17T23:01:00.000-07:00

Well ,Winnipeg has truly embraced what it means to Chase the Cure.

On Tuesday James Struthers had the Academy on Osborne rocking with an event he organized called the 'Chase the Cure Mixer'. This event had some of Winnipeg's most talented musicians including Flo, The Lytics, and James Struthers, himself. Both familiar and unfamiliar faces poured into the Academy to make a difference in the fight against cancer while enjoying these tunes. The night was kicked off by Flo, whose jazzy voice was a delight to listen to! We then moved into the unique James Struthers who awed the crowd with his shifty moves, and soothing voice. The Lytics finished out the evening with upbeat tunes. They had an absolute new sound of music that I greatly enjoyed. I cannot say enough about all of these artists. It is extremely difficult being a new artist financially but all of these artists found ways to donate.

The Lytics came out in full force even though they all had to be up at 4 a.m. to catch a plane for a show in Toronto. After their phenomenal performance they paid it forward by donating their first official paycheck to Chase the Cure. This act exemplified the generosity of the members of the Lytics. Please check out their music by clicking here.

James Struthers needs to be completely commended as this event was a complete success raising $2,500. I appreciate everyone who came out to be apart of the Chase as everyone of you have inspired me to continue to push this journey further while encouraging others to make a difference as you have against this terrible disease!!! I really hope everyone that came out had a phenomenal time, as I greatly enjoyed myself!

Previously, I spoke of Monarch Industries, a company that fundraised for Chase the Cure. Today I stopped by their office at noon, and my jaw hit the floor. This company is composed of passionate employees who seem to be one large family. Upon arriving I was bag piped into the office and greeted by all of the employees of the office wearing their Chase the Cure t-shirts. This absolutely thrilled me, as I had come upon a group of individuals who believed in the 'Chase' as much as I. After speaking to the employees I was presented with a cheque for $2,500! These group of individuals at Monarch Industries took it upon themselves to make a difference in the fight against cancer. These people will forever be in my hearts, and I will carry their belief, and encouragement all the way with me to the east coast! Thank you so much!

From Monarch, I met up with Steno who is a freelance cameraman who was hired by TSN to do a shoot for the Chase. Let me say, I am continually astonished by the quality people TSN hires. Steno met us at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, where we took many shots. Unfortunately, due to the outbreak of the swine flu we were unable to go into the building and gain shots of the GD6 ward we would have liked to! I must thank Steno for his passion he showed while filming the Chase!

Following my meeting with Steno I cruised down to NCI 105.5 for an interview with Brian Cook. Right away, this man was intrigued by the Chase. We moved on-air and he was a great interviewer. I appreciate the passion and encouragement Brian showed for this cause and the story he told me about how he too had been touched indirectly by cancer.

After speaking with Brian on NCI I cruised to Chase the Cure's nutrition sponsor Gorilla Jack. I was met by Barry and Martin who truly believe in Chase the Cure. Prior to Chase the Cure, they donated supplements which completely made the extensive riding of Western Canada easier on my body. I was restock by them and even given a little bit more. I am proud to associate myself with these two gentlemen as they truly are some of the kindest people and really know what will benefit my body on this ride! I cannot thank both of you enough for your continued support. If you would like more information on Gorilla Jack products (trust me its worth it), please click here.

I finished my night off with a welcome by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at their pre-season game vs the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. At halftime, I rode into a stadium filled with 27,000 fans! I was greeted by my father, and several individuals that are difference makers in the fight against cancer. After speaking to the stadium, I was presented by one company in particular that took it upon themselves to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Not only did Ram-Winn Diesel donate the RV, as a company they generously donated $5,500 dollars to make a difference in the Chase in Manitoba! I must say, as you can see below, Phil and Susie are sporting red t-shirts they had made for this occasion. There was a section of about 100 seats I saw of complete red! These were all workers of Ram-Winn Diesel who had decided to join the Chase and make a difference. I thank everyone who was involved in this phenomenal effort!

I also would like to thank those individuals who collected donations for Chase the Cure at the gates of the stadium (James, Annie, Mandy, Logan, Brodie, Laine, Shaun, Gillian... I know there are a few I am missing so please tell me as I would really like to acknowledge your leadership in this effort). Your determination in making a difference in the fight against cancer, assures me that as Canadians we will find a cure to this terrible disease! Thank everyone for a memorable last few days!!!!!!!!

A True Winnipeg Welcome

2009-06-15T22:12:00.001-07:00

Today we left Portage and cruised into Winnipeg! The weather for the last two days has been absolutely phenomenal. Upon coming into Winnipeg you realized how much this ride means to many here. Cruising into the Winnipeg area we stopped in Elie where we were greeted by a woman named Carol Fossay! Let me tell you this lady treated us like gold! She brought cool waters, cookies, and a extremely generous donation! She even offered up her hot tub if I had sore muscles!!! Following this I received an email from my friend Gene Dunn from Monarch industries and the picture consisted of 30 employees here in Winnipeg wearing Chase the Cure T-shirts!

I had a fellow right at the perimeter lean out of the yelling “Keep Going Wes Bauer Keep Going!”

The Chase moved forward into Winnipeg, and met up with a group of cyclists!!! Devon and the Winnipeg Police service had organized one of the neatest escorts down Portage, which is a extremely busy street in Winnipeg. It was great to watch these Policemen on motorcycles cruise in and out of traffic allowing us to move through red lights!!! The crowd that cycled was composed of all ages, it was great to see many familiar faces and unfamiliar faces. Special thanks goes out to Jon Oosterhuis and Doug Brown for coming out and riding with us representing the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

After arriving at the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Stadium a BBQ was set up and many media interviews were conducted! I appreciate all the reporters that came out to the Chase the Cure ride in to make a difference in the fight against cancer! Many that rode with us made extremely generous donations and I thank them for that!

Today was a great experience and enjoyable to share it with so many lovely people I know that over the next few days Chase the Cure will reach new levels as we have many events taking place while we are Winnipeg!!!!!

Goodnight for now!!! Together We Ride

Chase the Cure Video #2

2009-06-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

TOBA TOBA TOBA!

2009-06-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

Today I officially cross into the Manitoba Boarder making the count 3 provinces completed.

The last couple of days of biking have moved rather smoothly I travelled from Regina to Brandon over two days. I found my mind wandering a lot about my grandfather who lost his battle to cancer in Saskatchewan, and began to think of the many in this province who are effected by this disease. I continually hoped that Canadians would understand the need for us to make a difference in the fight against cancer as we never know when this disease will become apart of our life. I also to begin to think about how grateful I am for everyone who has made Chase the Cure what it is today. It has been a incredible experience to this point that has touched the lives of so many and we haven't even hit the halfway mark. I plan to continue to share my story while hearing the stories of others, and encourage Canadians coast to coast to make a difference in the fight, while supporting those currently effected!

Before I left Regina I found myself not only thinking about the things that were said at Campell Collegiate, but also the things said by Jim Hopson and the Riders. I stumbled across a fantastic article about Chase the Cure in Regina and encourage all to read it by clicking here.

I strolled across a couple of friends from a camp I attended in Alberta today. We met up in the oddest fashion considering we are both on bicycles going large distances. Calder and Kate are doing a Central Canada Bike tour biking from Camp Wanakita in Ontario to Camp Chief Hector in Alberta. They are raising funds for the strong kids foundation to benefit campers who are less fortunate and may not be able to attend camp without financial support! Check out their cause by clicking here. It was fantastic to sit down with them and talk about their trip thus far, and how the roads to come for the Chase are going to be!! I wish them nothing but the best in their journey to just outside of Canmore Alberta!

There will be a new video up.... fingers crossed I am hoping for tomorrow and we will ride into Winnipeg June 15th from the Unicity Walmart please come out and join us!!!!!

Goodnight for now from Brandon as we will be here for another day to chat with the media here!!! Together We Ride

An Absolute Uplifting Day

2009-06-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

When I arrived in Regina I was at the biggest low of the trip. I was exhausted after getting food poisoning, and biking into rough weather.

For the last couple of days I have been prepping a presentation for a Campbell Collegiate here in Regina. I didn't find out how large this school actually was until last night... a student body of 1,500!

This morning I woke up and had to quickly move to two in-studio radio shows, one with Big Dog, and the other at CKRM 620. From there we were off to Campbell Collegiate! The entire time I thought this event was organized by the faculty until we were greeted by a lovely 17-year-old girl named Hope. I soon realized that the event I was participating in, Campbell vs Cancer, was solely driven by student initiative.

The theme of the day was Awareness and Prevention. There were four speakers other than myself, and all spoke with passion and courage. One talk hit me specifically from survivor Harley Ast who has fought prostate cancer several times. He shared a poem at the end of his speech and the purpose of it was to encourage everyone to slow down in life... as sometimes we get caught up in the moment and travel place to place without looking around. We forget the important things of life as we become extremely busy. He asked everyone to slow everything down and see how it went. I know that even from slowing the speed down while biking across Canada it has unearthed a new appreciation for this country and the people in it. It is like a gift that, until now, I had continuously skipped over without fully appreciating it.

It was great to see youth my age stepping up to the plate making a difference in the fight against cancer. One of the most tremendous things that I have ever witnessed, was a part of the event at Campbell. At the end of the day there was a balloon ceremony. Before the ceremony, students had written the names of loved ones that had been directly affected by cancer onto biodegradable paper. They then placed them into environmentally friendly balloons, and as a closing part of the ceremony, let hundreds of balloons free. While this was happening all I could think about was my grandfather who passed from this disease shortly after my father's diagnoses had cleared up.

I must commend Hope and the students involved in organizing Campbell vs Cancer as what they did is a great accomplishment and extremely inspiring to me. All the funds they raised from their BBQ and T-Shirt sales will be donated to Chase the Cure, and help those currently affected by cancer, and find a cure to this disease within the Saskatchewan borders. I will carry their story across Canada and share it with as many as I can!

From Campbell we were off yet again to visit a CFL team: the Saskatchewan Roughriders. To many of my friends' dismay, I was presented with a Rider jersey which I sported during my interviews. After all ,when it comes to cancer the colors on the field are dropped and we are all one team working together in this fight. The Riders generously donated a cheque for $1,100 which was matched by Victoria Park Capital Inc, and was presented by CEO Janet Wightman. Both the generosity shown by the Riders and Victoria Park Capital Inc is something Chase the Cure greatly appreciates as it will go to make a difference in the fight against cancer within Saskatchewan!!!

Following the presentations I had my very first media 'scrum'. It was a weird feeling being surrounded by cameras and reporters, but exciting at the same time. While my brother watched in the corner with dismay (due to the colors I was wearing) I answered several questions from CTV, Global, CBC, the Leader Post, and Saskatoon's News Talk 980!

The day did not end there though! Following the media scrum I ventured out to meet a woman from the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency named Wanda and along with her came a woman by the name of Ilsa. A survior of cancer, Ilsa most definitely had a story to tell that reminded me why I am doing this yet again today.

When she was 16 years old she had a brain tumor. She was forced to be pulled out of school to have surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Her life was turned upside down and she fought hard for her life. After of painful treatments and great care her brain tumor was cured through treatment. One thing that struck me was how difficult it was for her to go back to school. She was forced to use a walker, and had no hair because of treatment. She said that it was incredibly difficult and harsh as she received looks all through the corridors of her school and did not feel comfortable being there. Now, she works for the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, and continues to make a difference in the fight!

(left to right: Wanda, me and Ilsa)
I have to send a huge thank you out to Dutch Cycle in Regina who cleaned up my bike after quite the sloppy ride from Saskatoon to Regina! This will allow for the bike to ride smoothly and make a difference in the pedaling! I would also like to thank Bruce Johnson and Janet Wightman for allowing us into their home while we stayed in Regina. They absolutely allowed for my body to recover and made me feel completely at home. Their interest in the Chase has inspired me to continue further on this journey!

Splish Splash Semi Bath!

2009-06-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Many thought that the mountains were going to be the most difficult part of this ride..... Well, let me tell you that Saskatchewan has proved to be quite the daunting task. From getting food poisoning on my way from North Battleford to Saskatoon (and not fully recovering) before entering into the toughest stretch of road met to date from Saskatoon to Regina.

Yesterday, I accomplished my goal of searching out the giant tea kettle in Davidson, SK,110km from Saskatoon. I must say though that the headwinds, slight uphill and weather made this day a long and grueling. Once I reached the tea kettle the skies opened up and I was absolutely exhausted. I crawled directly into bed and fell completely asleep for the night. I was hoping to get enough sleep that magically my body would feel like it did before I got sick!

This morning I woke to drips and drops hitting the top of the RV roof and decided to wait and see if the weather would blow over! After waiting a half hour I realized the weather was not going to pass and I just had to prepare myself for the rain and the semi baths that came along with it. I got ready and headed outside to begin and realized that I still had heavy headwinds which would slow me down, and I still did not feel 100%. The going was extremely slow as the incline continued to ascend toward Regina all day! Today was probably the toughest mentally and physically taxing day to-date as I continued finding myself tired and with a uneasy stomach!

Smiling we finally arrived in Regina and met up with my brother and recieved a fantastic hug from my Sister Danni and kiss from her dog Beenz! All of these were completely necessary especially after a exhausting day!

We exchanged the legend driver "Scott Fossay" (shown Below) with the extraordinary Brodie B!

We were welcomed into the home of Janet Wightman and were ever so grateful! Especially after being sprayed by semis so many times a shower was an absolute delight! We will be in Regina for the next few days and will visit with a high school, the Riders, and a cancer centre so please stay tuned to the blog!!!!!

Have a great night!

Saskatoon!!!!!!

2009-06-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of Saskatoon all came in one day which was today! A friend of mine by name of Lonni met up with me as she was visiting Saskatoon. We talked about everything from the experiences we have had in the outdoors, and what we have been up to in the last bit! Currently she is living in Medicine Hat and her work created an event for Chase the Cure to benefit Alberta. She works at the Desert Blume Golf Course and the beverage and food servers agreed to give up their tips for a day to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Previously being a server I know the sacrifice of this, as tips are what you live off of while working in any restaurant. Overall they donated $450 and have intentions on doing another day! I was astonished by this and ever so grateful for their generous contribution to the Chase! Thank you to all who were involved in this generous action!

Last night I met up with an extremely friendly cameraman named George from TSN. Throughout the three hour shoot he was fantastic to work with as he continually showed professionalism through all of his shots. He took footage from all angles symbolizing the prairies. He was determined to get a sunset shot no matter how chilly it was outside and we managed to get an absolutely beautiful sunset! A special thanks goes out to George and Daniel
(his assistant) as they truly were great people to meet!

Having family in Saskatoon has been wonderful! Tonight my grandmother and a great woman by the name of Elaine took Scott and I out for a delicious dinner at a restaurant called the Station! It is one of the most unique restaurants I have ever gone to as part of the restaurant is old coach train cars with seating in them! The gentleman who sat us was a part owner of the restaurant named David, and he came and talked with us for a while and we appreciated his company. I later found out that David had employed my father as a bouncer when he used to live in Saskatoon which allowed for some stories to be told, and laughs to be shared! I have to send a special thanks out to the Station, and my grandmother, and Elaine for this great dinner as I throughly enjoyed it!!!!

Tomorrow we head out toward Davidson Saskatchewan on route to Regina to find a Large Tea Kettle.... stay posted and will let you know how our search goes!!!

A Rough Day!

2009-06-04T21:58:00.000-07:00

This morning started out wonderfully! Tom from North Battleford brought us all to have breakfast, and we came back to the RV and worked some things out before I left.

I finally got out around 10 a.m. and moved quickly, and was thinking I would get to Saskatoon really quickly at the pace I was biking at, yet I had this awful feeling in my stomach all day. Then, I blew a tire.... I went to reach for my phone.... I had forgotten it, frustrated I was forced to sit next to a poopie diaper someone had disposed of on the side of the road. I waited for the support vehicle to come and meet up with me. We then changed the tire and began back down the road....... within less than one kilometer I hit yet another rock and popped the same tire. We changed it and I managed to get 10 km before the tire popped again. I must admit I was a little frustrated at this time, as we were completely out of tubes and 80 km from Saskatoon.

We headed into Saskatoon around rush hour, and found a lovely bike shop called Bruce Cycleworks. The staff there were extremely kind to us and gave us a 20% discount off the materials we needed, and changed our tires for us! From there we headed back out.... and on the way out I was interviewed on Drew Remenda Sports Show in Saskatoon. Drew and Jamie the two hosts of the show, asked some fantastic questions in regards to my father's diagnosis and Chase the Cure and I really enjoyed their interview.

We finally reached our destination 80 km outside of Saskatoon. I ate some Rolaids due to an upset stomach and began to bike back in with the little sunlight we had left. As I traveled the stomach pains became worse and worse, and my pace became slower, and slower. I was just wanting to finish the ride allowing for me to have a couple days off and deal with the pains I had. We were around 15 km outside of Saskatoon after a long slog. I came in and laid down on the RV floor and asked Scott Fossay for the score on the Stanley Cup game, I heard Penguins won and I was out the door on the side of the road relieving the stomach pains I had.

After this I thought all was well and quickly finished the ride into Saskatoon. We arrived in Saskatoon and I loaded my bike up to go find a Wal-Mart to purchase Pepto-Bismol to relieve the slight discomfort I had. Yet again while walking up to the till, I realized I would not make it through the line up and gave Scott my banking information and ran outside to the nearest garbage can. From that point I realized that I had food poisoning due to something I had eaten earlier that day. The night was rough but Scott really helped me through it by telling me to keep drinking water, and today I feel a lot better. Just tired!

We are in Saskatoon for a few days now so I plan on getting my health right back up to my standard and ride down to see some Riders in Regina!!!! All is well, we hit a little speed bump today but it won't stop the Chase!!!!

The Unexpected in the Prairies

2009-06-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

Today, I slept in and lazed through the morning before beginning my ride. I started riding around 10 a.m. as I only had to travel 130-140km.

It was absolutely gorgeous with a beaming sun, great winds and everything moving smoothly. I came up to the physical border division of Saskatchewan and Alberta in Lloydminster. The street it was on was called, "Alberta-Saskatchewan Border"! I decided it was only appropriate to be in both provinces at once.

From there I moved down the road and was honked at several times by those who had seen the news report we did the previous day with a bunch of great guys from NewCap News in Llloydminster. Even a man pulled over and chatted with me for a while and donated $20 to the Chase!!!! Excited by this, I continued on my way to North Battleford! I hit my first problem when my back tire blew just outside of a small town in Saskatchewan called Marshall. I could see a bunch of kids outside at a school which was surrounded by trees allowing me to sit in the shade and change my tire. I hoped I would get the chance to talk to some of these kids about what I was doing!!!

Well, to my surprise, I am now the proud owner of two 1st place, and a 2nd place ribbon from the Marshall School track and field day. I was able to participate in all of the activities due to a generous action by Scott Fossay who offered to finish changing the tire on my bike!!!

As a group we traveled through, long jump, 100m sprints, 800m run, and tossed the football around. I also had a chance to tell my story to this group, and encourage them to make a difference in the fight against cancer.

One thing that absolutely made my day was when one boy named Dylan went up to his teacher Linda and said "I want to ride my bike just like him." This made me realize that I had impacted this boy to make a difference and I am sure he will as he was one great kid! While there, I met many staff, and other students. The donated Eskimo helmet came in handy as some participants were dedicated fans!

I eventually had to leave Marshall school but it is most definitely a place on this trip I will not forget. I thought it was really neat how something that could frustrate a day such as a blown tire, managed to completely make it something incredible. It goes to show when something goes wrong to look around and see if there is opportunity, because if I had simply changed my tired I would have missed out on a Track and Field day and a lot of fun with a bunch of great kids!!!!!

I blew yet another tire shortly after I left the school and decided to switch bikes instead of changing another tire.

I must say that I am extremely appreciative of the members of Chase the Cure on the ride currently. They are always right there to support me, and help me keep pushing, without them this would not be possible. After I changed bikes I cruised and was stopped by my team 25km outside of North Battleford for a surprise!!!! An omelette which was absolutely delicious made by Ashley!!!

The people of Saskatchewan have already been absolutely tremendous. We met a cyclist named Tom from North Battleford who came up to us and chatted with us! He told us of the locations we needed go to, and even offered to situate us outside of the school he works at John Paul II Collegiate for free wireless Internet, and opened the doors for a shower! Thank you so much Tom for your generous actions this really makes a difference for us!!!

Thanks Ashley, Scott, and Brodie for being a great support team on the road it makes a huge difference! Also thanks to everyone who writes emails of support, and honks while we pass on the road. It continues to encourage me!

I encourage all to continue to the 'Chase' as we will find a cure to this disease. Inspire as many as you can, make a difference and donate (Click here to visit the chase the cure site and donate).

Goodnight to all as we sleep outside this old style school shown below! Have a wonderful night and a great day tomorrow.... Together We Ride!!!!

An Elegant Cruise

2009-06-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to seagulls screaming and fighting right next to our RV at 5:23am, exactly 7 minutes before my alarm. I got out of bed and went to a gas station and grabbed the Edmonton Sun. I flipped over the first few pages and found a great article about Chase the Cure (click here to view). I was rather excited about this and began on my way!!!

The morning was brisk and I moved at a decent pace until I found a Ukrainian historical site. My love for perogies and Ukrainian food got the best of me and I moved through the historical buildings in search of these delicious treats!!!! To my disappointment the cafeteria was closed so I found my way out, while finding out what all the historical buildings were!!!

I hopped back on my bike and started to continue to ride on! Mysterious creatures I had never seen in my life appeared beyond a gated fence, so I slammed on my brakes to get a closer look.

It ended up being six bison!!!! These creatures absolutely fascinated me. They took off running with me when I started riding again and galloped beside me for 2kms!!! It was a special experience, especially since I have never seen these massive animals before!!!

Overall today went extremely smoothly and we travelled beyond what we thought we would by 150kms!!!! We covered 270kms into some awkward swirling winds!!!!!

Have a wonderful night, and tomorrow we will play with the Alberta, Saskatchewan border... I am going to try and be in two provinces at once!!!!!

Welcome to Eskimo Country & The Monster Boys

2009-05-31T16:52:00.000-07:00

Today we were welcomed in Eskimo fashion at the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. We were greeted by Dave the Communications coordinator, and Rick LeLacheur (President and CEO of the Edmonton Eskimos).

Upon arrival there was a series of interviews talking about the Chase with reports from Global, CTV, Edmonton Sun, and Metro News. All of the reporters were extremely professional and fun to work with! Following this I took my bike for a lap around Commonwealth stadium.

The Eskimos donated an autographed helmet which will be auctioned off to help in the fight against cancer, as well made a generous donation to the 'Chase'.

Today showed yet again that even though CFL teams compete against each other for the Grey Cup, there is truly only one team when it comes to fighting cancer, and that team involves all Canadians coast to coast.

This afternoon we retreated to a group of men called the 'Monster Boys' whom we had met the night previous. They absolutely blew us away with their generosity, great humor, and big hearts. This morning they called us, and told us we must return to see them again, as they wanted to make a generous donation, cook us a meal, and fill us with gas! We were met by their entire crew who were working in West Edmonton Mall building retail stores, and even heard of them working down south at Simon Cowell's vacation home!!!!

Well, we excitedly accepted their offer and they did not disappoint in any manner. Below, is a picture of the supper we ate (stuffed potatoes, steak and delicious rice.... let me tell you I don't normally enjoy steak but man this steak was absolutely delicious)!!!

As we ate, the manager revealed to us that he had contacted his friends in Newfoundland to take care of us when we arrive there. They also gave us wonderful advice in saying creating memories is one of the most important things a person can do, and they were so grateful for being able to create memories with us!!! My hat tips to these men as they are truly difference makers in the fight against cancer and truly class acts!!!!

We now look east to the Saskatchewan border as we travel out of Edmonton tomorrow morning with our new motoring man... Mr. Scott Fossay!!!!

All have a fantastic night! Even a better day tomorrow. Goodnight from the C-Bus!

Day of Difficulties

2009-05-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

Even though Edmonton is only 154km away from Red Deer today was a day composed of difficulties! I woke up late due to sleeping near a road in which motorcycles/large trucks felt it necessary to rev their engines as loud as possible in neighborhoods. I proceeded with yet another groggy morning, and not wanting to get out of bed period! Finally I pulled everything together and got right on the road while my support vehicle sorted some issues out.

As I was traveling around 70km outside of Edmonton I realized that I was out of water. I figured I would stop at the nearest gas station pick up some water, and a power bar since I had ate my last one on me! I reached into my back pocket to snag my debit card and soon realized that this debit card was on my bed. I deiced to call the 'team' and ask them how sorting out things went, and where they were. It turns out they hadn't finished what they needed and were leaving in 25 minutes, so it would be nearly a hour and half before I saw them. I thought well I will continue to bike and stop at a restaurant or coffee shop and fill up my water. Well 10km later I heard the air leak out of my tire...... Now I had another issue on my hand than lacking water. Not near anywhere to get water I quickly went at changing the tire. I somehow managed to form and pop a blister on my hand while doing this, and get extremely dirty. Finally I pieced it together and was on my way. I soon realized though that Leduc was the nearest area to stop and get water which happened to be 30km away still.

I mounted my bike and was on my way... destination for water! I moved quickly in hope of vanishing a thirst I had. I moved underneath a over pass and pop went my back tire again...... I looked at the tire quickly and saw that a staple had precariously found its way directly into my back tire.... frustrated and tubeless I phoned support and found that they were still around a half hour behind me. I waited this one out on the side of the road, and have a sunburn on a area on my legs I missed with sunscreen to show for it.

Upon their arrival I raided the RV for food and water, and grabbed my spare bike as I did not want to switch another tube into the back tire for a second time today. From there I cruised down the road to find a photographer for the Edmonton Sun who has saw the RV and stopped to take some pictures as we moved into Edmonton. This absolutely brightened my day, as she was a delight to talk to and it was neat to see someone intrigued by the Chase enough to stop!!!! I thank her for lifting my spirits today!!!!!!!!

That is all for now but Welcome to Edmonton

Even Though Creston is Not on Route they are Difference Makers

2009-05-28T18:38:00.001-07:00

I have to admit the 5:30am alarm this morning came far too quick. I groggily pulled myself out of my bed and went at packing and organizing and eating some breakfast. I read an email from my friend Shauna who informed me her high school, Prince Charles Secondary in Creston, BC, (not even on route) had done a fundraiser to benefit the Chase in British Columbia. Ms. Popoff the principal of PCS created a get out of school for a dollar, and all funds raised went toward Chase the Cure. Overall they raised $330.00 and truly made a difference in the fight against cancer! I thank all that were involved in this event as it will truly help many in British Columbia! This event absolutely blew me away and I am so thankful that the Chase is reaching people outside of the route!!!!

The morning was great and full of sunshine. I decided I would take the longer/road less travelled to Red Deer. I headed west to begin my morning with the mountains in the background and the conditions were perfect! That is, until a silver Porche Cayenne sped out and went to clear a stop sign without looking.

It just happened was in between them and the sign and swerved quickly out of the way as the driver came back to reality and slammed on his brakes for a close call. This occurred on Old Banff Coach Road and if the driver ever reads this I hope you make a sizable donation to Chase the Cure! Luckily I was aware and escaped, seeing the other lane was completely empty and was able to use it to my advantage to get a safe amount away!

The rest of the ride went absolutely smoothly, I travelled into Cochrane AB and out on the 22 towards Sundre. Along the ride there were a lot of rolling hills, and horses in fields. I rode past some cowboys on their bikes and they were completely confused as to how I ended up getting where I was! Through the whole ride toward Sundre, I could see the beautiful Rockies in the distance and the beautiful prairies beside me. For the first day of riding in the prairies I really enjoyed myself!!!!!! We travelled a total of 200km today into Red Deer and are looking at heading into Edmonton tomorrow :)

That is all for now and I hope everyone has a fantastic night!!!

WELCOME TO CALGARY!!!!!

2009-05-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

The Calgary Stampeders Joined the 'Chase' to end cancer today at McMahon Stadium! When I arrived at the stadium, the Chase was greeted by a pile of stampeder staff, and smiling generous faces. I actually had to ride through a tunnel of Outrider Cheerleaders' pom poms who were extremely excited about the Chase and I thank them for that!

Burke Dales (#16) and Wes Lysack (#31) came out wearing their jerseys and supported the Chase. They were extremely engaging and friendly players who wanted to make a difference and I thank them for offering their time out of their schedule to come down to welcome Chase the Cure to Calgary. Mitch, Mike, Stefan, Melenee and their team from the Stampeders office had set everything out very professionally and coordinated the event very well. They fed a hungry Chase crew, with an absolute delicious meal and went above and beyond what was asked in true champion format. Not only did they make a successful event, they were extremely generous as staff, and made an even more generous donation as an organization. Special to thanks to Ted Hellard who also matched the team's donation, and Stan Schwartz who came out to this event. I would also like to thank Scott Ackles and members of the Stampeder Staff who made this a memorable and successful part of the 'Chase' and truly making a difference in the fight against cancer!

I had a total of six interviews today which will find their way throughout Calgary! So Calgary keep your eyes posted. I thank all the media for coming out to this event and wanting to make Chase the Cure as large as possible.

It is great to see teams able to be competitive within the CFL but also recognize that cancer is a disease which effects everyone in some way, and together we can make a difference..... To end off the Stampeders organization is a class act in the CFL and they proved this today! I will ride with their encouragement into their rivals' city in Edmonton, but in the meantime...

GO STAMPS GO!!!!!!!!!

Together We Ride!!!!

2009-05-26T22:19:00.001-07:00

As I always love to say "Together We Ride". This is because I know that while I am riding my bike across Canada to end cancer there are many that continue to inspire me, and others to make a difference. This is shown right here, Jesse Marques and Larry Franz from St. Paul's High School turning the wheels with Wes Day on May. 21st. Together Larry Franz, 14 student riders, and the student body of St. Paul's High School raised an outstanding $4000.00 for the Winnipeg Region to fight back against Cancer. These difference makers need to be commended on their hard work, and I am sure that they will inspire many to make a difference in the fight against cancer! I thank all who were involved in this ride!!!

Anthony Yee Pedaling to make a difference in the fight!

One of the top fundraisers Rob Krasny taking his turn pushing the pedals.

Cam Norrie above taking his turn in the St. Paul's corridors making a difference

Chase the Cure Rolls into Calgary

2009-05-25T23:45:00.001-07:00

New Chase the Cure Video! Enjoy :)

Today was a different day I can say at the least! We drove out to Banff to meet Sid from TSN, and problems occurred right away! Before starting the shoot, I realized a part was missing from my bike, so we completed the portrait shots in a gorgeous area just outside of Banff. I must say that Sid was amazing at working with the scenery, framing to create an unbelievable shot every time. From there we went and got the part that was needed from Doug at Magic Mountain in Banff who generously gave me the part for free as his donation! We were on the road biking into a strong headwind! Just after crossing out of the Banff Provincial Park, my back tire popped. We sat at a standstill and Sid filmed while I changed my tire. Once it was fixed, I hoped on my bike and went into Canmore for a washroom break! I walked out of the doors after a break to rain and stronger headwinds, and unable to find Sid or Ashley in the support vehicle but continued to bike! I biked frustrated by the headwinds for around a half hour before Sid came past me and set up another shot!

Through all the frustration I managed to meet an amazing human being, in Sid from TSN, he was a wonderful character who seemed just as devoted to Chase the Cure as many are and I thank him for that!

I came home tonight to meet a young man by the name of Tyler Remington (above) who is truly a difference-maker in the fight against cancer. He made an extremely generous contribution to Chase the Cure in Alberta to help those who are currently fighting in this province.

I also found out that two friends of mine Sid and Robin had stopped by the house and decided to ride with us (as you can see below Robin is Riding in style)

I thank Robin and Sid for their extremely generous donation, and I want them to know that their money will make a difference in the fight against cancer!!! I thank these individuals for starting off the Chase the Cure Alberta campaign so successfully and I encourage others to join and make a difference in the fight against cancer by chasing the cure as these individuals have.

That is all for now! Much Love and Goodnight :)

Alberta Bound!!!!!!

2009-05-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

I was going to write a blog last night yet when I nestled up in my fantastic fleece blanket with the computers on my belly, I realized that there was no internet connection. So I shall fill you in on the last two days!

I started out early at Sicamous BC (The above picture is from the D'Dutchman Dairy which contains the best chocolate milk in the world), even though the original plan would put me a day ahead it was to try and get up and over Rogers Pass to Golden 210km before the weekend. The rational behind this is it can be a dangerous bike ride through tunnels with traffic during the weekends. I have to admit this decision was a fantastic one! There were no side areas a cyclist could walk their bike

e past the tunnels and the only solution was to go directly through. It is a crazy feeling going through these tunnels completely dark and

the angry engines of semi's echoing off the walls.

I must admit the going was not easy through this area, but I was continually inspired throughout my morning by St. Paul's High School and their dedication to the 'Chase' from the day, I know without this inspiration I would of not reached Golden this day! Going down Rogers Pass was a wonderful delight of speed, I reached a max speed of 90 km/hr which was a complete rush but a nice rest! From there my brother hopped on a bike and we rode the remainder 60kms into Golden.

Once we reached Golden we pulled up to a gas station completely exhausted. We watched the semis blow by, and those come in an

d fuel up! A beautiful Harley strolled in and filled up, with a man riding it named Dave. He came up to us and we talked. Ironically enough he had family members effected by the exact same cancer as my father and generously made a hundred dollar donation for Alberta!!!!! I cannot thank him enough as he rejuvenated my tired body. I had to physically get on my bike and spend time thinking about this and travelled over Kicking Horse Mountain Pass. I cruised into Field BC on how Dave's generosity and his story. This ended up a being a 275km day all because of those who have decided to participate in the 'Chase'. There is a picture of Dave and I below .

I woke up this morning a little bit later in gorgeous Field BC!!!! My brother decided he would bike the 30km to Lake Louise and cross the provincial border with me, I have to admit it was greatly appreciated. Yet before we got there we found this really amazing bridge which we stopped at you can see below Brodie is sitting on it!

The border was reached and I became overwhelmed with a feeling of gratitude of the generous people we have met in British Columbia! I encourage them to continue to donate and Chase the Cure as it is never really over until we find a cure to this terrible disease!

We arrived at Lake Louise after a gorgeous weather ride and stopped and had a bite to eat and I continued on my way. Meanwhile Brodie and Ashley ventured Lake Louise and met a fantastic woman named Kelli at a bookstore who took a bunch of Chase the Cure brochures and posters. She was absolutely excited about the ride and wanted to make a difference in the fight against cancer through donations ! I thank her for this and encourage others to make a difference like Kelli! I cruised one of the most gorgeous roads I have ever rode traveling on the Bow Valley Parkway into Banff. Overall it was a fantastic day! We will spend the next few days prepping our Calgary stop and expect to roll into Calgary on the 25th of May and stay for a few days!! That is all for now!

If you enjoyed the blog click here to make a donation that WILL make a difference in the fight against cancer.

Have a wonderful night :)

Together We Ride

The day Wes wasn't biking alone...

2009-05-21T23:06:00.001-07:00

Today was an incredible day. I biked through the beautiful mountains from Kelowna, BC to Sicamous, BC; but I wasn't the only one biking. There were 15 people riding with me.

St. Paul's High School in Winnipeg, MB decided today was the day they were "Turning the Wheels with Wes". What started as an idea for a small fundraiser turned into something huge. From 8 a.m. (before many students were even arriving at the school) until 3:30 p.m. (when most of the kids were leaving) Larry Franz, the organizer and teacher, along with 14 students he rounded up, biked in half hour sessions for the entire day.

In order to ride, students were expected to raise pledges for Chase the Cure, but Mr. Franz and his gang didn't stop there. They also had a loonie jar for donations, so that passersby could drop a small donation at the riding site. A donation got them a ticket voucher which entered them to win a variety of donated Chase the Cure-related prizes. People were so generous, that many didn't leave just a loonie, and the jar was filled with almost $300 by the end of the day!! Plus, they sold t-shirts for us, too!! As if that wasn't enough, they played our TSN clip at the riding site the entire day, and gave us a lot of exposure.

Mr. Franz, his riders, and the many other generous people who contributed at St. Paul's today managed to raise over $3700 for the cause, and for that I am incredibly grateful. However, as awesome as their efforts were, and as generous at everyone at St. Paul's was today, I was even more affected by the personal lives they touched through their ride with their "Chase the Cure cards". Mr. Franz encouraged people coming by to write the name of a loved one who was/is being affected by cancer. The wall was plastered with cards and my heart goes out to all of you who had the strength to make your pain public. You are the reason we are doing this ride.

Thanks again to everyone at St. Paul's and everywhere else along the way who has shown this ride their amazing support. You know who you are, and we couldn't do this without you!

I'm blown away. More and more every day, I see how many people are riding along with me. I proudly say...

Together We Ride.

Wonderful day and Wonderful Stay in Kelowna

2009-05-20T23:47:00.000-07:00

Today was most definitely a day to remember I woke up this morning and Ashley managed to whip up a pile of interviews for me today as I was speaking at a school. In total there were seven interviews conducted all before 1:30pm before we spoke about Chase the Cure at AS Matheson. When I arrived at AS Matheson I was met by a former professor and now proud to say friend of mine Shona who arrived with smiles as she has followed the progress of Chase the Cure from the very beginnings. Her daughter and son Paige and Mason for the previous two days set up a lemonade stand in support of Chase the Cure, and raised over $43 dollars. They are truly difference makers in the fight against Cancer!

Great friends of mine Ryan, Jen, Connie, and Sarah came out to see what this presentation consisted of and I thank them for their support. While speaking at the school the students turned out some phenomenal questions, and created an event called Toonies for Two Weeks, encouraging the kids to bring in donations of two dollars as often as they can for two weeks to make a difference in the fight against cancer! These kids are a complete inspiration to this ride and will be fantastic leaders of tomorrow. Special thanks to Scott Sieben and his staff, as well as Shona Harrison for setting up this great day :) Also thank you to Brodie and Ashley for helping organize and set up this event to inspire these children of AS Matheson!

The Pendleton family is one of a kind. They completely opened their doors to us for multiple days and really made a huge difference in our stay in Kelowna. Their generous actions in both donations and housing, and heartwarming smiles, brought a completely enjoyable stay in Kelowna. I cannot ever thank them enough for all that they have done for the Chase the Cure, and really have made a difference by allowing us to stay with them! They are truly difference makers in the fight against cancer as they were as equally excited about Chase the Cure gaining coverage in Kelowna as we were. I will most definitely carry their passion for life, kindness, and generosity along with me in this ride as we travel coast to coast!

Before I left I was given a card from close friends in Kelowna whom not only took time out of busy schedules to see me on numerous occasions but also donated their own money to the Chase. I thank my friends for being extremely generous and being difference makers in the fight against cancer! I cannot wait to see all of you again and wish all of you a wonderful summer :)

I thank all of those who came out and interviewed Chase the Cure today as you truly made a difference in encouraging Canadians to stand up and make a difference in the fight against cancer! Keep making a difference Kelowna and we will find a cure to this disease!

I look forward to see what the cities on route to Calgary have to offer the 'Chase'

That is all for now have a great night :)

A Day in Kelowna!

2009-05-18T18:55:00.001-07:00

Today we woke up to a delicious breakfast made for us by the Pendleton family (We really do love this family). From there we headed off into Kelowna to get brochures out on the city!!!! We moved towards the mall hoping that we would be able to set up a booth within or just outside the mall as it was a gorgeous day. Being unsuccessful at this we decided to place brochures in the windshield wipers of cars. Halfway through though we had a guilt come over us........ we thought about how we felt when these brochures were in our wipers and we drove away. We decided it was in our best interest to stop, and go and work on the AS Matheson Elementary School presentation we will be making on Wednesday!!!!! I was extremely pleased to see some of my old friends from the University of British Columbia today and chat with them for a while.

After finishing up working on Chase the Cure at a coffee shop all day we decided to go buy groceries and head up Knox Mountain in our RV because apparently we can do that with the RV haha. We spent our night over looking Lake Okanagan (what we saw is above) and eating a delicious meal (below). Things became more interesting when we got kicked out of the park since it was closing time, and we had to drive the RV down a series of switchbacks, to get to the bottom.... I personally thought I would be wearing this delicious meal. We somehow managed to hold a pile of plates, our glasses and the extra rice and salad bowls,

All is well and Goodnight for now and sleep well :)

Early Morning Risers: Merritt To Kelowna!!!

2009-05-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today the day started off too early in my opinion! The alarm sounded at 5:30am and I felt like I had just hit the right crack on my bed to have a restful sleep. I lazed around for a few minutes before I decided to assemble my things and have a delicious breakfast of yogurt and granola, and a bagel with jam and peanut butter. Following this I hopped on my bike and ascended directly out of the town of Merritt. There were numerous climbs on the 150km route towards Kelowna. A little larger struggle came when a headwind, combined with the hills made the going difficult. At 40kms in, after a hill climb my back tire tube had blown. I assembled my things on the side of the road and began to work on getting a spare in place, ironic as the day before I had helped a older couple change their tire on their car. I finally managed to pull myself back on to the road, and continue on my way to Kelowna.

Once the RV arrived, my brother decided he wanted to bike the last 60km with me, lucky for him that, there was one more large uphill, to be followed by 25km of straight downhill! We reached a max speed of 75km/hr but had a headwind holding us back from going faster. Even more delightful the temperature was reaching 25 degrees Celsius.The scenery going down was absolutely stunning, beautiful mountains dropping down towards the valley which is something that most definitely needs to be seen!!!! We arrived in Kelowna and were greeting by a friends of mine, one generous one in particular who is allowing us to situate ourselves within their home :). Special thanks to the Pendleton's. It is late here and I am absolutely exhausted so I shall be off to bed for now!! We will be spending the next few days in Kelowna as we are ahead of schedule and look forward to what Kelowna has to offer in the "Chase"

Losing and Finding Myself (Day 2)

2009-05-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a big day. I woke up at 5am, and began riding in a brisk morning out of Abbotsford, BC. Everything seemed to be going well until I hit my least favorite sign on the road - the no biking sign.

I was forced quickly to address the situation and follow a bike route that led me onto country roads. I followed these roads, but it turned out one of the biking signs was not present at an important location. I traveled back and forth trying to find the route for about an hour. After a while I decided to go over an over pass and and took the first road I found.

I was met by a woman running alongside her husband's bike. I stopped to ask them for directions back to the Trans-Canada Highway. After his directions had me walking through a marsh, I stumbled across a bus driver and asked him for directions. He gave some pretty thorough directions and set off to pick up his students. As it turned off, they also led me slightly astray. An hour later, a pedestrian gave me directions that successfully led me to the Trans-Canada Highway.

Following this, I traveled to hope where I met up with the support vehicle and had some lunch and a power nap :). From there, I traveled up and over one of the most intimidating passes on route to Calgary - the Coquihalla. It reaches 1,244 m and has some fairly steep climbing grades!! Overall, everything went pretty smoothly and I arrived at the top.

On the way down the Coquihalla, I came across an older couple on an uphill climb who had completely blown out their car's back tire. I got off my bike, helped them jack the car and chatted while we changed the tire. After hearing what I was doing, they generously donated $105 dollars to Chase the Cure to benefit BC!!!! I was extremely appreciative of them doing this.

My journey ended with me getting chased by three German Shepherds and another bumblebee "situation" - this time in my ear. I have a feeling this recurring bumblebee theme will not be ending any time soon :). I'll keep you posted.

Overall, today was just as fulfilling as yesterday. I'm continually touched by the generosity of the amazing everyday people around me.

Together We Ride.

Inspiring Beginning

2009-05-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

Today we launched from Steve Fonyo Beach in Victoria. I must say that there are many stories I could tell from just one day. I will share a few that stick out for me.

The first is about two individuals named Chris and Linda, who came down to Victoria's Mile 0 to see the launch. Linda is a breast cancer survivor and one of the kindest ladies I have met. These two individuals absolutely made my day. Linda's bravery in bearing this disease is something I greatly look up to, and now I will carry it with me as inspiration. Her smile showed that she seemed to appreciate every moment and I only hope I can match this appreciation for life.

Chris is a man who I felt truly carries the same passion as I do when it comes to cancer. He is extremely ambitious and motivating. I know both these individuals will make a huge difference in the fight against cancer, and I know both of them will continue to ride in my heart all the way to St. John's and for the rest of my life :). I know that they will encourage others that they are truly Never Alone in their battles.

A man from TSN named Pat showed up in style today fully embracing Chase the Cure. The day before he showed excitement in the Chase as he contacted Chase the Cure, and told us that he would not only be there before us in the morning but he also wanted to gain footage of the ride to the ferry terminal, and come on the ferry with us!!!

Throughout the day he filled the air with jokes and knowledge he had gained from shooting Rick Hansen around the world. Pat was someone who was fully dedicated to his job and getting great footage! He shot from all different angles out of the car! Even had his driver (Ashley) drive at an appropriate speed so he could sit in the back of the van with the trunk open filming out of it. I would be lying if I said this was my favorite thing about Pat. He gave great advice, had an awesome sense of humour, and overall he was just a phenomenal person dedicated to making a difference in the Chase!

There were so many highlights from today and I most definitely only shared a few here, others include, Gord from CHEK TV coming down to Mile 0 and doing a great interview, and telling me he needed the "money shots" which was dipping the wheels into the Pacific.

Another highlight was the first person who arrived at Mile 0 this morning. Candace, a friend of mine, came out to see me leave Victoria. That was an absolute delight!!!!!

I do have to admit that I did have an extremely scary moment today where my life flashed before my eyes. I was biking and felt everything was going great. I had my mouth open a little so I could breathe and I was looking around at the scenery around me. I brought my focus back to the road and WHAM!!!!!! Right into my mouth flew a delicious bumble bee!!!! Scared out of my mind I immediately blew the bee out of my mouth and hoped that it set sail away from me!! :)

I would like to say thank you to the Victoria community and encourage them to continue to Chase the Cure and make a difference in the fight against cancer. Tonight I will sleep in Abbotsford, and wake up in the morning and travel to Hope on route to Kelowna!!!! Hope to see everyone on the road. I encourage you to continue to make a difference! Good night for now. :)

Together We Ride

Chase the Cure Begins Tomorrow

2009-05-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Mile 0, marks many symbolic beginnings. Where Terry Fox was supposed to finish his journey, yet in my mind completed his journey. As he completed his goal of inspiring many across Cancer. It marks the beginning of Canada going from West to East. It marks the beginning of Chase the Cure.

Tomorrow is the first leg of Chase the Cure, I will take my bike down to the water and dip the back wheel into the Pacific Ocean, and begin to travel coast to coast. I have a variety of feelings going through my body right now, excitement, concerned, and not knowing what to expect. Yet there is a overwhelming calm in myself, as I am completely and solely focused on making a difference in Victoria and encouraging Canadians here to make a difference.

I hope you will continue to follow and tell others about the "Chase" to end cancer, and we will accomplish miracles.

Together We Ride

Winnipeg Launch at Earls Polo Park

2009-05-05T19:52:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our launch in Winnipeg Enjoy. To find more pictures please click this link :) http://www.flickr.com/photos/chasethecure/show/with/3505794003/

Chase the Cure T-Shirts Are In!!!!!

2009-04-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to tell everyone that the fantastic t-shirts Connor Gould from Paradime designed for us to put on our bodies are in!!!!! (http://paradime.myshopify.com/) Please look below to see the designs that came out on top! There are currently 100 of each they will be $20 a piece and if you would like to make a further donation to Chase the Cure it would be more then appreciated it. We will have more created as our stock gets low. We will have them up on the website for sale shortly. Lets get these puppies on as many bodies as possible and Fight back against cancer while looking good :)

"Life is Like a Movie, Write your own Script"

2009-04-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Oddly enough over the past few days I have found myself embarking back into my childhood by watching Muppet clips. While watching these cloth figures, try and time their hand movements to their speech, a line caught my attention. “Life is like a movie, write your own ending.” The more I thought about this line the more truth it held. In the end we are not remembered by the job we had, the car we drove, the income we had. Rather we are remembered, for the actions we took, how we treated others, what we supported and the kindness we showed. Each day you have the opportunity to enhance your ending. This summer I ask you to enhance your ending and include the Chase to End Cancer in your life story. Create a event, donate, spread the word and Chase the Cure. After all as I said before its not about the ride. As Canadians we will be making a difference in the fight against cancer, and truly be Chasing the Cure.

I ask you to join me this summer and together lets produce a movie, we will write the end to Cancer

The Route & Dates

2009-04-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

View Chase the Cure in a larger map

Smile Smile Smile!!!

2009-04-16T16:28:00.001-07:00

This video goes to show that our daily actions can actually make a difference in others lives... Enjoy!!!!

Free Hugs

2009-04-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

This is a video which I have cherished for a long long time.... when we have no words.... the best thing is to give a hug.... it is the most comforting action a person can give.... enjoy!

Only A Month Away!!!!

2009-04-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

In a month I will be at a elementary school in Kelowna BC telling the story of how Cancer effected my life, as well as others such as a boy named Michael in Newfoundland. I have been planning Chase the Cure for nearly a entire year now, and to look back and see what we have accomplished is extremely rewarding. The things that I envisioned have now come true... New ideas have stemmed, and I hope only that every single Canadian on route, or not plays a bigger role in this entire ride, then anyone else who has helped organized this. I truthfully am thrilled every time someone approaches me and wants to make a difference in the fight against Cancer by gaining pledges, by putting on a event, or asking to help in anyway they can. When this happens a smile literally breaks out immediately on my face! You are the difference that can defeat this disease, and we need to work together to succeed.

I have to admit there has been several struggles along the way. For example when dealing with sponsors it is a tricky business and in todays economy I found the door being slammed on my face before I even had a chance to ask for their support. Yet there have been many who have opened their arms and embraced what is to happen.... to them I thank very much.

I only hope the strides continue to be large, and that at the beginning of the ride on May 15 we start a new journey as Canadians, the journey of feeling making a difference in this fight. The feeling of supporting each other and strangers we do not know. The feeling of selfless actions, and mostly a feeling of being alive, mobile, and able to be the Change you want to see as Ghandi puts it.

I am excited and I hope you are also :) Stay Tuned, Create Awareness, Raise Funds, Make a difference, as we are all in this together!!!!

Together We Ride

Cai-lei's Story

2009-03-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

In 2003 my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. To this day I cannot remember how I found out or when I did but I remember my life was changed forever. You never fully understand how it affects someone else until you are put through it.
My grandma fought very hard for 5 years before passing away at the age of 64, the first round of treatment went extremely well, but when she relapsed it wasn’t as good. She didn’t react as well as she had the first time and she became very fragile. The hardest part for her this time was loosing all her hair. It was hard for me also, because she didn’t look like who my grandma looked I grew up with.
Growing up, I spent as much time as I could with her she would take me to the zoo and we would sing Cory Hart and watch Anne of Green Gables together. It was the perfect time spent with grandma. When she relapsed the cancer had spread into her lymph nodes and it became harder for her to fight, as she grew more tired as the time passed. I remember at one point she came to spend a month with us as the treatment got harder and she could only eat organic food, her arm was in a sling due to side effects of chemotherapy, and I was scared to even hug as I thought it would hurt her. Again though she fought it off and we were relieved thinking she was in the clear.
At this point I was in Kelowna going to university, my grandma would send me cards and we would exchange emails as much as possible and she always told me to never give up and to stick to my dreams as she believed that I would always be able to achieve them.
In my second year of university I was talking to my dad one night and he told me that grandma was sick, instantly I asked what kind of sick and he said that the doctors figured its vertigo. I didn’t think too much of it as my dad told me not to worry. The next week rolled around and grandma was still extremely sick my dad took her to the doctors again. They came to the conclusion that she was relapsing again but this time the cancer has spread to her brain and she had many tumors, some the size of golf balls. I waited all day that day to receive the phone call from my dad, I was heading into the final bit of school with exams fast approaching but I was told it was going to be okay even though it was too late to operate. My grandmother was also extremely tired and she wasn’t sure she had it in her to fight anymore. My first thought at this point was I need to get home as soon as possible, but my dad reassured me she would be fine and he would let me know when I needed to come home. I made it through exams and as soon as I had written my last final and moved into a place for the summer I got the call that I needed to go home as she was “going down hill” extremely fast. She had gone from driving herself to dinners with friends to needing two people to help her get up and walk to the bathroom in a matter of a week.
I knew as soon as I landed in Calgary we would be going to see her. The whole flight I prepared myself for what was to come next, but as soon as I walked in the door and saw her I realized no amount of preparing had me ready for this. I began the battle with myself of trying to keep the tears off my face and stay as positive as I could for my grandma. Due to the fact that it was too late to battle this one out she was on a handful of medications trying to keep her comfortable but weren’t really doing anything for her. Sitting with her on the couch that night we talked she looked at me and said “Cai-lei, I’m extremely tired I want to go to sleep and never wake up again”. To some point I wanted her to as well because I didn’t want her to be in pain anymore. This was one of the toughest things to be told in my life. My dad and I got her to bed that night waited until she was somewhat relaxed and we drove home. For the next couple of days we woke up at about 6:30 got coffee and went to her house as someone needed to be there for when she woke up. I spent everyday with her and kept her company, she told me a lot of stories about when I was little, and every so often she would get upset. We eventualy moved grandma into a hospice she disliked her new “home” making it extremely hard to see but we did as much as we could to make her happy and keep her comfortable.
Near the end of the week my dad, my sister and I went and got tattoos for her. We showed them to her and she called us all buggars but was very curious as to why we had gotten and why we got them. She liked knowing these kinds of things, so I explained to my grandmother that mine says grandma in Japanese so I would always remember her as my grandma Matsumoto. She ended up loving all of our tattoos. That week came to an end I went and said what we all thought to be my final goodbye, it was very hard to do but we both made it through and she left me with wonderful thoughts. When I walked out of her room I thought wow that was the last time I would see her, but when I returned home about a month later she was still fighting. I spent as much time as I could with her that weekend, when I went to return to Kelowna and say goodbye to her again in my head I didn’t think of it as a final goodbye and I figured I would see her again. This time I was wrong, dad kept updating me for the next couple of weeks and she was very consistent, then she started “going down hill”. On July 4th 2008, at about 6pm my dad sent me a message saying that the end was coming soon, I didn’t exactly know how to take it as I was in the middle of getting my haircut for my birthday dinner that night, so I said okay and started dealing with it on the inside. At about 9pm in Kelowna friends and I were about to walk into earls when my phone rang and it was my dad, before I answered I knew she was gone, he didn’t say anything to me on the phone and after a minute said call me back. We hung up my one friend asked me if I wanted to continue on with dinner and I said yes cause I knew my grandma would’ve been upset if I didn’t. My dad called me back and he had booked me on the first flight to Calgary in the morning, which was my birthday.
From that moment on to this day I still regret not getting on the next flight out after my dad told me the end was coming. I feel as if I let her down because I wasn’t there beside her. When I landed in Calgary the morning of the 5th we began prepping for the funeral and trying to get everything in order, it was another hard week. It has now been about 9 months since she passed away and some days are still harder then others. I have troubles still wrapping my head around the fact that I can’t see her again and that she is gone forever. Everyday I wish she was still around, but I cherish every memory I have with her which keeps me going.

Together we ride........ with Cai-lei and the Matsumoto family I know Grandma Matsumoto will be pushing those pedals along the way,

REZ RUMBLES A SUCCESS!!!!!

2009-03-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

Friday March 20,2009 marks the day the residents of the University of British Columbia Okanagan competed each other in physically challenging events. Teams composed of home base residence Kalamalka came out on top.

Within all of their efforts these students raised awareness as well as generating funds. It was a wonderful event in which the students proved that anyone can make a difference in the fight against cancer.

This is What Being Part of a Team is About

2009-03-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

BASKETBALL GRADE 7 hoopsters at Macdonald Drive wear their hearts on their jerseys in support of a sick teamate

ROBIN SHORT

The Telegram

Since 12-year old Michael Smith was diagnosed with cancer a month ago, he's not only received support from family and friends but from an entire basketball community. Michael is a member of the Macdonald Drive Grade 7 boys' team, a close-knit unit which has accompanied their ill teammate every step of the day.

For the past couple of months, the St. John's native had been complaining of fatigue, and hadn't been sleeping well. Last month, a small lump was found on his neck. Shortly afterwards, Michael was diagnosed with Hodgkin's

"Some of the boys knew," said the team's coach, Kevin O'Leary, "because a lot of them are friends. And a lot of the parents know each other."

"Still, it was a shock to the boys to hear it. I know my young fella (Liam) found it hard."

As a sign of support for his friend, Liam had his head shaved. Others are expecting to get a buzz cut when the fourth annual Real Time Cancer's Shave for the Brave is scheduled.

"It's not only our team," said O'Leary. "A number of other teams have shown gestures of support.

"Last weekend, we held a tournament at our school. We were playing St. Peter's (of Mount Pearl) in the final an at halftime, the St. Peter's team presented Michael with a big card and gifts. And there have been other teams, like Mount Pearl Intermediate and Beaconsfield, who have given him gifts as a sign of support."

A couple of weeks ago, a parent one of the Macdonald Drive players, Darlene Mullowney, came up with the idea of designing a patch which the players could wear on their jerseys. The patch is adorned with the Canadian Cancer Society's daffodil, Michaels No. 14 and the words, 'Team up to support Michael.'

"We collected $5 dollars from each player to pay for the crests, and when we we went to pick them up, Ultragraphics gave them to us for nothing," he said.

"Its another example of the support Michael's been getting. If there's one thing positive to come out of this it's the support he's receiving has been overwhelming."

rshort@thetelegram.com

The Truth... My Thoughts

2009-03-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

Two Wheels & Handle Bars....

Many have questioned me in regards in what I believe the toughest part of Chase the Cure will be. Mainly my reply is the ride is not the difficult part, as it is not about the ride. As they prod further though to ask what will be physically draining, each area of Canada poses its own difficulties:

The Mountains: The Rockies most definitely contain some very tough climbs, but with every hill you travel up, you eventually get to travel back down. The Coquihalla High presents the largest climb

The Prairies: Generally most believe the prairies could be the easiest section, yet with a headwind this assumed "walk through the park" can be turned into the toughest section of the ride

Ontario Hills: Ontario actually has some very tough hills and pose a extremely tough challenge during this ride

The Unexpected: To be honest I fully do not know what to expect from Quebec and the Maritimes as I know that my body will be tired by that point and the going could be difficult.

I know that the entire ride I will remember that what my body is going through is extremely easy, compared to those whom are fighting this disease, night, and day being my inspiration to keep going for them!

The Outstretched Hand....

What worries me the most is the one thing that I am unable to control. I can control my fitness, I can control the organization of the ride, the one thing I cannot control is the awareness of Chase the Cure through word of mouth. It completely depends on everyone who knows about this ride. Word of mouth is the most powerful way to get a message across, and everyone who spreads the word is truthfully making a tremendous difference in this fight against Cancer. I greatly appreciate everyone who has already told all of their friend about Chase the Cure. I encourage everyone to come out when we are in your area and ride with us!!!!

The Emotions....

This is probably one of the most unexpected situations within the ride we will face. The emotions of the ups and downs, the people we meet and the stories we hear. I really hope that I will be able to capture these through blogs, and vidoes in order for you to see everything we get to see, as well understand the emotions when it comes to dealing with Cancer.

Hope to see everyone on the Road!!! Please spread the word of Chase the Cure, and lets together youth, adults, and elders make Cancer a thing of the past.

Together We Ride

Chase the Cure T-Shirt Designs

2009-03-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

So Folks here they are!!!!! Now I need your help! I need you to comment on which designs that you enjoy and would love to wear on your body!!!!!!! If you can please leave a comment arranging your favorites, or just state your favorite!!!!!!!!! Your suggestions will be highly valued.

Lastly I need to send a HUGE thank you out to Connor Gould and the boys of paradime who designed these AMAZING TEES. Their clothing is unique, creative, quality and it was a delight to work with them. Check out their website at http//:paradimemyshopify.com . I hope you enjoy checking out the tee's. Have a fantastic day and remember Together We Ride to defeat this disease!!!!!!!

Engulfed in Waves

2009-03-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt lost in a sea of people? I know that early this year for the first time in my life, lost in a sea of people in Vancouver British Columbia. I walked around Robson Street and felt engulfed by the waves of people. I begin to question myself in how am I ever going to reach out to those in cities such as Vancouver to inspire them to make a difference in the fight against cancer, and Chase the Cure. I came across a writing earlier this year that reassured me. It is gruesome in ways, but at the same time holds the truth.... Here is a excerpt from the book 'The Tipping Point' by Malcolm Gladwell.

"One of the most infamous incidents in New York City history, for example, was the 1964 stabbing death of a young Queens woman by the name of Kitty Genovese. Genovese was chased by her assailant and attacked three times on the street, over the course of half an hour, as thirty-eight of her neighbors watched from their windows. During that time, however, none of the thirty-eight witnesses called the police. It became the symbolic of the cold and dehumanizing effects of urban life."

This in turn was later dubbed the "Bystander Problem" (Named by Bibb Latane & John Darley.) Through a series of tests they proved that the knowledge of others being around a situation like Genovese the less likely people will take action; as they feel someone else will do something to correct it. When it is just one other person, they will take action the majority of the time and prevent the situation from worsening.

When a thought strikes your mind, whether it be as simple as a piece of garbage on the ground, or putting on a event for Chase the Cure, and you think "Why doesn't somebody do something about that." Stop and realize that you are somebody and you can make a difference. It is amazing as actions speak larger then words. You never know how much you may effect another life. You may inspire another person to feel okay with something as simple as picking up a piece of litter or you may inspire someone to speak out for what they believe as Martin Luther King did. Everyone of us has potential to make a difference small scale or large scale, we just need to believe.

For me Chase the Cure has no way anything to do with me, as it requires the effort of so many.

Bottom line without Canadians pulling behind this event, the support shown in Cancer Centers will not be as grand. So together lets be somebody and inspire others to Chase the Cure Remember when you feel like you cannot do anything to make a difference, just look to the person next to you and try and inspire them in some form. It does not need to be words, it can be a simple action or gesture.

"I Always wondered why somebody doesn't do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody" -Lily Tomlin

Fight Against Cancer.....Create a Event!

2009-03-07T22:17:00.000-08:00

Chase the Cure is not about the biking across Canada, but rather Canadians coming together to fight back against this disease. I really cannot see a better way of honoring those who have passed from this disease, supporting those who currently are effected by the disease, and fighting back against the disease by putting a event on in your local community. I encourage you to indulge in the process of creating a event, be creative, have fun with the idea, and make it enjoyable..... after all we only have so much time on this Earth.
Whether it be within a Community Center, a team, school, group of friends, do what ever you can to fight back against this disease. Lets together support those whom have and are being effected by cancer, and end this disease once and for all!

If you would like to consider creating a event, please email me at chasethecure@gmail.com and I will have a events package sent out to you! If you would like to match up times when Chase the Cure will be in a area near you, please let me know through email in advance!

Donate.... Raise Awareness.... Fight Together

Together We Ride,

A Great Event In Cranbrook British Columbia!

2009-03-07T20:03:00.000-08:00

In Cranbrook British Columbia there are a group of difference makers in the fight against Cancer. The Avalanche Girls of the College of the Rockies made a difference in the fight against Cancer.

These girls created a event called 'Paint the Gym Pink' at one of their home volleyball games. They encouraged as many spectators as possible to come out and raise awareness in the fight against cancer. They handed out Chase the Cure brochures, and showed their support of the ride. The girls sported pink warm up jerseys, as well as wearing them after the game while talking with spectators.

These girls effort in the fight against cancer is to be absolutely commended.

Chase the Cure.....spread the word

Nick Laping

2009-02-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

Mr. Nick Laping (1942-2009)

It was early February I was informed that a familiar face in the corridors of my high school, Nick Laping had been diagnosed with acute leukemia (this form of cancer affects the white blood cells as well as other organs).

I was fortunate to meet Nick late in my grade twelve year. I remember my introduction to him, it felt as we had known each other for years. His friendly smile and openness to make you feel important is something I will never forget. I only hope I can transfer this to my own life.

I remember I was in Nick's son (Jeff Laping a teacher at St. Paul's) English class, and I had racked up the courage to speak of my fathers diagnoses in front of the entire class. I finished my speech with "After seeing my father go through this disease, I know that my father is one of the toughest dads out there". Jeff responded with my Father (Nick) is tougher than yours.

I know for a fact that Nick was a tough man, it was directly shown through his passion when it came to raising funds for St. Paul's High School through the Phone-A-Thon to allow others who may not be able to attend St. Paul's due to financial reasons to have the same experience he had while he was a student at St. Paul's. He showed his passion when it came to basketball, whether it be March Madness, a Pipers game, or Crusader game Nick was always there in full spirit supporting the students playing on the team. Most importantly Nick showed passion for life, and his family.

Nick unfortunately passed away February 26, 2009. One thing I know is that Nick had the ability to leave a positive impact on everyone he met, no matter how much time he had spent with them. There is only one quote that comes to mind when thinking of the brief time that I had to get to know Nick "No love, no friendship, can cross the path of our destiny without leaving some mark on it forever" (Francois Mauriac)

I've known from the beginning of this ride that I would never be riding alone, this just adds to that statement. I know that Nick will help push the pedals across Canada, bring courage to Canadians to band together in finding a cure to Cancer, and to support those who are/have been effected by this disease like himself and his family. I know Nick has already set out the proper people to watch over his family, and he will in turn be watching over them.

I ask everyone to continue to spread the word of Chase the Cure, so we can work to end this terrible disease that takes the lives of so many we love. I ask everyone to spread the word of Chase the Cure so we can support those who are going through difficult times with cancer. As Canadians we have tremendous power and ability to accomplish whatever we want.

Together We Ride....... along with Nick and the Laping family

"If You Set Your Mind to a Goal, Then You Can Achieve It" -Patrick Hughes

2009-02-17T23:18:00.000-08:00

Patrick Henry Hughes is a inspiration to us all. Growing up completely blind and unable to walk from birth, Patrick took what many call his disability, and claimed these to make him able. He is a enthusiastic young man, who participates in the Louisville Marching Band, and has written his own album called "Most requested from me to you"

One of the reasons Patrick really grabbed my attention was not within his story, but rather his attitude towards life.

"My main message, to not just people my own age, but to everyone. It does not matter what disabilities you have, or what problems you face on a day to day basis, if you set your mind to a goal, then you can achieve it." I hope that Canadians can find this attitude towards life in themselves.

Get Back Up!

2009-02-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

Nick Vujicic was born without arms and legs. Yet words full of inspiration to anyone who hears them. His main goal is to give hope and inspiration to others.

I came across Nicks video from a friend, and was immediately taken back by this 25 year old man. His speeches are not only moving but provide the inspiration to all to keep trying and no matter what the circumstances are, do not give up.

Please take the time to look at Nicks video, its only 5 minutes long and is extremely motivating:

Brady Murphy's Story

2009-01-31T15:32:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all who may read this,

My family has been plagued with cancer of various types back as far as the genealogy can trace - lung cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer - the list goes on. Many of my family members have been fortunate enough to have survived bouts with this deadly disease and in many ways it has shaped our relationships, both positively and negatively. My grandmother, grandfather, and two of my uncles have all battled cancer in my lifetime and I suppose I should be prepared for the possibility of facing the proverbial dragon myself one day!

In January 2006, my uncle succumbed to Cancer three months after being diagnosed with a tumor the size of a fist in his lung. As anyone who has gone through it before can testify, there's a certain sense of disbelief that hangs in the air when the verdict comes down. My uncle was like a father and was a crucial part of my life growing up and losing him has been very, very hard for me and the rest of my family. Always lighthearted, full of life, and willing to give of himself, my uncle was an exceptional man and an inspiration to many- I still think back to all the instrumental times that he played in my youth, but his passing has shaped me almost as much if not more. Sadly, my grandmother and my uncle passed away only weeks apart (my grandmother of natural causes), and it prompted me to take on a new challenge which has defined my life for the last 3 years. Since then I've done a fair amount of research into cancer, its causes, and new prospect for treatment and I'm confident that the tools we need to effectively eliminate cancer are on the horizon. I graduate this spring with a Bachelor's degree in Science and I have an interview in a few weeks for acceptance into the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba! I'm looking forward to an opportunity to help people in much the same way that my family has been helped over the years by those in the medical profession, but I'm also excited to get involved in crucial research which may help to see the elimination of this disease within my lifetime.

Some people have labeled me an optimist but I take that as a compliment- it can be hard to be an optimist when you or your families life has been touched by cancer. To all of those out there who've lost someone who means the world to them, or know someone who's battling a devastating illness; keep your chin up, and let their resilience and courage be an inspiration to you. I've learned well that life is ours to do with as we see fit, and time is always against us - but my advice is to live each day to its fullest and enjoy the gift you've been given

In memory of my uncle, the J. Michael Waldram memorial fellowship program has been set up to encourage aboriginal youth to get involved in post-secondary education in natural resource management. For more information, please see http://www.cif-ifc.org/site/jmwf

Thanks for the opportunity to share my Story. Above is a picture of my uncle Mike Waldram

Brady Murphy

Together We Ride............... along with Brady, his family and Mike Waldram

"A Injured Lion Still Wants to Roar" -Randy Pausch

2009-01-28T09:38:00.001-08:00

A quote by Randy Pausch whom was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer struck me for the second time, "An Injured Lion Still Wants to Roar". In the case of Chase the Cure, these injured lions will roar. I have currently been accumulating stories from those whom have been, and currently are affected by this disease to share and show Canadians why we need to unite together and fight back against this terrible disease. The names of those who submit the stories will remain not stated, and will be posted both in my blog, and hopefully on the website nearer to the ride. If you would like to submit a photo of your loved one feel free to do this, these people I would like to honor on Chase the Cure as we know how tough this disease can be on patients as well as families. I encourage you to submit your story, if you do not mind being recognized please let me know!

Together We Ride

Enjoy a shorten form of the Last Lecture below (10 Minutes):

Enjoy the Full Version:

Youth Movement In Winnipeg

2009-01-28T08:31:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas there were a lot of finely dressed, young women and men doing their part to Chase the Cure. Two girls approached me earlier this year asking if they would be able to put together a 'Benefit' formal for Chase the Cure. Ecstatic about getting the youth in Winnipeg involved I watched this event grow into something extremely special.

The night consisted of Chase the Cure posters which they had made themselves (I might say they looked great), Red and White Balloons, and Chase the Cure colors and brochures everywhere. Parents of the youth showed up in full force to help with the event, also to take donations at the donations table set up. This table sold $400 dollars in Never Alone Wristbands and pins. These youth of Winnipeg danced their night away, socialized and overall I had the impression that everyone in attendance; even the security whom was a friend of mine had a great time being apart of this event.

I would like to thank those who were involved in organizing this event, as I am truly proud to openly talk to other youth and inspire them to Chase the Cure along with you. I would like to thank everyone who donated, as well as everyone who came out to the event to help Chase the Cure!!!!!!

Together We Ride,

Kelowna University Students Chase the Cure

2008-12-25T16:27:00.000-08:00

The very first fundraiser of Chase the Cure took place in Kelowna BC at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. With less than a weeks notice, the students of the University of British Columbia Okanagan responded. Speakers, Musicians and plenty of support all arrived in full force for the night. We had around 6 different musicians get up and play several pieces, and some fantastic poetry in front of around 80 students.

I asked one question in which the response always seems to set me back. I asked the people of the room "How many people in this room have been affect by cancer directly, or indirectly through family or friends to please raise their hands." Every single hand went up in the room. I spoke of how cancer had affected me in my life and why I had decided to do this ride not merely for that but rather every single person affected by this disease. The amount of support I received after my talk in terms of people telling me their stories about how Cancer affected their life and they support Chase the Cure 100%, as well as the hugs shared set for one beautiful evening.

The night was absolutely set when one students father asked me if he could get on the mic and say a few words. He went up there and talked about how cancer had affected him and has affected every single person in the room. He gave kudos to those who had gone up before him speaking, and preforming. He Challenge the students who showed up to donate and dropped a $50 dollar bill in the donation bin and walked off stage. This generous action was given a generous response by the students of the University of British Columbia Okanagan raising nearly $500 within 2 and 1/2 hours.

I would like to thank those students who came out to this event and showed their support and your the reasons that this ride will be a success. I would like to thank those who helped organize this event and let them know that their dedication to Chase the Cure has not gone unnoticed but is rather very much appreciated.

Together We Ride,

Wes Bauer

Chase the Cure Photoshoot

2008-12-25T16:14:00.000-08:00

LIGHTS CAMERA SMILE!!!!!!!!!

The Chase the Cure photo shoot took place at the beginning of December. Overall the photograp

her shot 117 shots some extremely fun filled but others holding awkward poses. The Chase the Cure photoshoot was supported by several volunteers who gave up their time and hauled their bikes down to the studio to be photographed! Overall we had 15 people of all ages with helmets, bikes, and a fantastic smile. These photos will be used on posters for Chase the Cure as well as our website and should be seen shortly!

I thank everyone who put fourth tremendous effort to not only organize this but show up on an extremely cold day!!!

Together We Ride