Ride For Karen continues to raise funds for cancer support

The Ride for Karen raises funds for those living with or those who are supporting friends or family with cancer. The ride was founded in 2002 to honour Karen Tobias, who passed away from breast cancer. Her family’s vision when they started the ride was to continue Karen’s work with the hope of building facilities and resources in the fight against cancer. The Ride for Karen also helps send children with cancer to camp.

Before her passing, Karen was a nurse who was passionate about providing better care. She felt that there was a gap between patients and hospitals. For cancer patients and those who were critically ill, Karen sensed hospitals were ill-equipped to provide an environment that would enable patients to have greater hope.

Since 2002, the Ride for Karen has raised $1.8 million. In 2013, the focus is on children’s camps; Camp Quality, Camp Oochigeas and Camp Trillium. These three selected charities have been chosen to receive the 2013 Ride for Karen proceeds.

On Sept. 8, the ride will be held on the roads of northern Toronto. It is a single-day event that welcomes all cyclists of any ability who want to participate. With many rolling hills, the different circuits will undoubtedly be challenging, but also energizing. The ride is fully monitored with support vehicles and rest stops.

There are four different courses. For regular cycling enthusiasts there are a 160-km and 100-km ride. For those who are less experienced with long rides, there is a 25-km loop. Finally, there is an even shorter ride for kids.

The event is based in Vaughan, Ont., north of Toronto at St. Joan of Arc High School. Further information about fundraising and the events can be found on their website.