THUNDER BAY – HEALTH – The simultaneous roar of 207 motorcycles this morning at 9:30 a.m. marked the continuing fight against prostate cancer. On this date, prostate cancer in Northwestern Ontario took another hit from the 283 participants in the 16th annual Motorcycle Ride for Dad, presented by Tbaytel.
“We are extremely proud to be partnering with the Health Sciences Foundation this year to present the Motorcycle Ride for Dad,” said Tbaytel President and CEO, Dan Topatigh. “At Tbaytel we look for unique and meaningful opportunities to support community initiatives that make a tangible difference and the Motorcycle Ride for Dad, which is now entering into its 16th successful year, is definitely no exception.”
Thunder Bay’s most popular motorcycle event continued to make a significant difference for prostate cancer care and research in Northwestern Ontario. This year’s event raised $47,171, bringing the sixteen-year total to $948,105. “What better way is there to celebrate Father’s Day than by raising funds to ensure our fathers, grandfathers, brothers, uncles have the best opportunity to survive prostate cancer,” said Glenn Craig, President and CEO of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.
John Pascuzzo once again earned the title of top pledge earner, collecting $3,450 in pledges. The total pledges raised this year was $26,318, with 31 people raising at least $100 and 20 raising at least $500. Those who raised over $500 received free registration to next year’s ride.
Participants began with a parade around Thunder Bay and then enjoyed the sights in and around town as part of the poker run. Prizes were awarded for top poker hands.
“One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime—and these rates are expected to rise. The good news is that, when detected early, prostate cancer is highly treatable,” said Glenn Craig, President & CEO of the Health Sciences Foundation. “Sponsors and participants of the Motorcycle Ride for Dad, presented by Tbaytel are helping save lives by encouraging men to talk to their healthcare providers about prostate health and equipping our cancer care team with the latest equipment to treat prostate cancer.”
The funds raised support the Northern Cancer Fund of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. 100% of proceeds remain in our region to fund prostate cancer research, diagnosis and treatment in Northwestern Ontario. Equally as important as the amount raised is the prostate cancer awareness generated by the Motorcycle Ride for Dad, presented by Tbaytel.
Together, we are making HOPE possible.