Wheelin’ Warriors of the North founder Karin Piche recently posted her ‘why I ride’ story on Facebook and it’s a little heartbreaking and a lot inspirational.
Piche started the group in November 2012, right after she lost a friend to skin cancer. She is captain for the Tour de Cure team to raise funds for the BC Cancer Foundation.
“In the beginning I used the ride as an outlet for my mourning,” Piche explained. “Since then, my reasons for continuing to ride and to captain this amazing team have grown and evolved to encompass so much more. I ride to create space for people to mourn their losses, and also to celebrate life's accomplishments and subtleties. I ride to raise money for the BC Cancer Foundation, the largest fundraising event supporting BC Cancer. Each year our team has consisted of some very inspiring and dedicated teammates ranging in age and experience, but all share a common goal: a passion for fundraising in support of cancer research and care.”
So far the Wheelin’ Warriors of the North have raised almost $1.5 million for the BC Cancer Foundation and the money all stays in the North. The funds go to BC Cancer to equip the centre with critical technology, expand its research capabilities and attract world-class experts and supports the Patient Comfort Fund, which provides resources for patients travelling to Prince George for treatment.
This year is Piche’s 11th ride and she is once again asking for the community’s support. For more information and to donate to the cause visit www.tourdecure.ca/fundraiser/Karin23. And if a dinner dance fundraiser appeals, check out the Free Wheelin’ Gala on May 27 at the Prince George Civic Centre. Call Karin for tickets at 250-617-1507 or leave a message on Wheelin Warriors of the North Facebook.
