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Vancouver Island motorcyclists to take part in Dawn Ride to fund ovarian cancer research

Fundraising ride to take place May 28
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The Annual Dawn Ride in support of ovarian cancer research will take place May 28. (PQB News file photo)

The second annual Dawn Ride challenge by Canadian motorcyclists in support of ovarian cancer research will take place on May 28.

Spunky’s Motorcycles located in Parksville is hosting the Vancouver Island launch of this event on Saturday, May 28 at 9:30 a.m., for approximately 40 local motorcycle Dawn Riders. The official ride will get underway at 10:30 a.m.

“This is a rain or shine event,” said national co-chair Bonnie St Julien. “Women diagnosed with this deadly disease have grit, so a little west coast sunshine won’t hurt us.”

Last year, from a standing start the Dawn Ride surpassed its $50,000 goal and raised $60,987 which has been directed to critically needed research. The 2022 goal is $100,000 and to date over $65,000 has already been raised.

“The Dawn Ride is an annual self-directed national fundraising challenge for motorcyclists to participate in during the month of May and Vancouver Island riders have been getting involved by supporting this worthy cause” said St Julien. “And of course we welcome donations from riders and non-riders alike.”

READ MORE: Port Alberni’s 37th annual Toy Run draws 412 riders

The Vancouver Island Dawn Ride is organized by a small group of volunteer motorcyclists who are passionate about making ovarian cancer history. All funds are being managed by the Ovarian Cancer Relief Foundation, a registered Canadian charity.

“The idea for the ride came about when one of our friends and fellow riders was blindsided by a stage IV ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2018,” said St. Julien. “We were stunned to realize that there is no reliable screening test for the disease and no vaccine to prevent it.

“Ovarian cancer is the most fatal cancer unique to Canadian women and of the 3,000 women diagnosed each year, fewer than half will live to see another five years. Those odds haven’t changed in over 30 years. This is devastating families across the country, so our focus is on awareness and funding much needed scientific research.”

St. Julien stressed the importance of raising much-needed funds to support Canadian researches as well as making women of all ages aware of the symptoms related to this deadly disease.

“If you are experiencing pelvic pain, ongoing bloating, increased urination, or menstrual changes, don’t dismiss it,” said St. Julien. “Get checked and if necessary, get a second opinion – you are worth it!”

For further Dawn Ride information or to donate visit www.dawnride.org

— NEWS Staff

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