For Victoria resident Bonnie Gunderson, this year's Tour de Cure is more than just another bike ride.
As she prepares to embark on her 10th 200-kilometre journey from Cloverdale to Hope, Gunderson carries with her the weight of a challenging 18 months and the strength of three generations of her family.
"We've had a rotten year with three of our family members diagnosed and receiving treatment for cancer within the last year and a half,” Gunderson said. “Mom is historically a nurturing caregiver, and it's really hard for her to watch her offspring go through this and not be able to do anything to support them. Instead, she has sponsored me in this ride, and I'm riding for them."
Gunderson's motivation is deeply personal. Her youngest sister is battling breast cancer, having already lost her husband to Ewing sarcoma in August 2018. Another very close family member is also undergoing cancer treatment. Additionally, Gunderson's 34-year-old niece, Tegan, has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Gunderson will join about 2,000 cyclists for the Tour de Cure on Aug. 24-25. The Tour, presented by Wheaton Precious Metals, has been a major fundraiser for cancer research since 2009. To date, it has raised $124 million for the BC Cancer Foundation, supporting research and patient care across the province.
Gunderson's journey with Tour de Cure began in 2014, and since then, it has transformed her life.
"I've fallen in love with cycling since my first tour," she says. "There are so many memorable moments – I love this ride and look forward to it every year. The volunteer support and 'cheerleaders' make it so much fun.”
Her preparation for this year's challenge has remained consistent with previous years, involving year-round training to maintain her fitness and endurance. However, the impact of Tour de Cure extends far beyond the physical challenge for Gunderson.
"I'm far more aware of cancer’s progress and care than ever before," she notes. "This has been especially helpful this past year as I've watched my siblings receive treatment."
For her 10th ride, Gunderson has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $3,000, contributing to the event's impressive track record.
The need for such fundraising efforts remains critical. With one in two British Columbians facing a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime and over 30,000 new diagnoses each year in the province, the impact of events like Tour de Cure is more significant than ever.
As a veteran participant, Gunderson offers heartfelt advice to newcomers: "Your hard work is done, now enjoy the experience! Listen to your body, bring rain gear, hydrate and eat often. Most importantly, take this time to honour your loved ones. The riding 'headspace' allows you to cry, laugh, or whatever you need in the moment. You are not alone – everyone, including the riders, the volunteers, and the spectators, are right there along with you."
As the event approaches, organizers are encouraging public support through donations and cheering on the riders along the route: https://tourdecure.ca/find.
