A three-year legacy, and an official Great Cycle Challenge (GCC) champion, 415 (Long Range Patrol and Force Development) Squadron’s Marie Johnstone is currently organizing a team of cyclists for this year’s GCC Canada’s Cycle to end kid’s cancer.
Johnstone, who has always enjoyed cycling, was moved by the initiative’s slogan, “Because kids should be living life, NOT fighting for it.” Having witnessed the impact of childhood cancer when her eldest daughter’s school friend passed away following a battle with the disease, Johnstone is determined to fight alongside these children and their families.
“Cancer is the largest killer of Canadian children from disease, and over 1,400 Canadian children are diagnosed with cancer every year,” says Jamie Lamont, director of special events at SickKids Foundation. “Thanks to riders like Marie, we’re fueling groundbreaking research to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve.”
Since Johnstone has joined GCC Canada, she has raised over $4,500 for the foundation. As a regional champion, Johnstone has been raising awareness in her community and canvassing local businesses to join the cause.
“Local businesses have been phenomenal.”
Johnstone is currently organizing a fundraising event in August involving some of the businesses’ generous donations. She is hoping this year’s “Team Swordfish,” currently ranked second in Nova Scotia, will match last year’s contributions of $3,000 and, with still a week to go before the kick-off to her campaign, Johnstone is well on her way, having already raised over $1,300.
In the meantime, Johnstone trains for August’s 300-kilometre by cycling goal three to four times per week, and will increase her training by riding to work from her home in Coldbrook using the Harvest Moon Trail, a daily, roundtrip commute of 64 kilometres. The early morning rides are never dull: Johnstone often finds herself sharing the road with local wildlife, including one wandering cow, which had to be coaxed home by a local farmer.
July 23, Team Swordfish will gather at the Coldbrook and District Lion’s Club for a group practice. Family, friends and anyone interested is invited to come cheer on the team and support their cause. Johnstone also invites those interested in joining Team Swordfish, or donating to the SickKids Foundation, to visit greatcyclechallenge.ca/riders/mariejohnstone.
“Your support will change little lives.”
