Odette Pepper has achieved her fundraising goal of $5,000 but with two weeks left until she takes part in the Ride To Conquer Cancer, she says more donations are welcome.
The Port Coquitlam cyclist has been training and raising money for the ride since April in preparation for the two-day, 200-km ride from Vancouver to Seattle. This will be Pepper's fifth ride and she said she is looking forward to receiving a gold-painted helmet in recognition of her participation in the event.
"It has probably been my best year for fundraising," she said. "I actually have a check on me right now for $500, which will take me to $5,600."
All proceeds from the Ride To Conquer Cancer, which has raised $70 million since 2009, goes to the BC Cancer Foundation for research and treatment.
Pepper know first hand how important fundraising can be.
She credits the foundation with helping to find a treatment that has successfully reduced the size of her tumors since her cancer returned in 2011. The 48-year-old was able to get back on her bike in 2012 and took part in her first Ride To Conquer Cancer Event that year.
This year's training effort was interrupted by injury, but she said she has been getting on her bike a lot the last few weeks and is ready for the trip to Seattle. She is riding 100 km a week or more in preparation and said she knows what she is in for when the gets on the road for the Aug. 27 to 28 event.
"I am lucky I have a physical job," said the UPS courier delivery worker. "It keeps me in shape."
Pepper will be participating in this year’s ride with the Cap’s Westwood Cycle team, which is made up of 24 cyclists. Those who wish to contribute money can click here.
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