A record 750 cyclists took part in the 9th Annual Glotman•Simpson Cypress Challenge on Sunday, August 14th to advance critical research in pancreatic cancer. More than $400,000 was raised this year benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation.

The timed 12km ride up Cypress Mountain draws cyclists of all levels who want to make a difference in the lives of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer – one of the leading causes of cancer death across the country.

First-time participant Donovan Tildesley, who is completely blind, made the climb on a tandem bike, riding in memory of his father Hugh and with the hopes that those diagnosed in the future have more effective treatment options.

The five-time Paralympic medalist, who describes his dad as his hero, mentor and friend, says the day he learned of his diagnosis: “rocked my world.”

“We all knew the prognosis was ultimately fatal—it was just a question of how much longer he had to live,” says Tildesley, who along with his guide, Ryan, were top fundraisers for the event.

Stories like the Tildesley’s drive the team of volunteer event organizers led by our Managing Principal Geoffrey Glotman and the Glotman•Simpson Cycling Club to host the annual fundraiser, which has grown to be the largest across Canada for pancreatic cancer research.

Over its nine year history the Glotman•Simpson Cypress Challenge has raised more than $2 million to advance research and care for individuals facing pancreatic cancer. This year’s funds will help Dr. Daniel Renouf and his team to fully understand how pancreatic cancer develops and progresses. One of the key areas of research going forward will be potential screening methods to catch the disease earlier.

To learn more about the Cypress Challenge and how funds are advancing life-saving research, visit www.cypresschallenge.com