I hate cancer
Held by John Belshaw
Cypress Challenge 2024
4 supporters
On Sunday, July 28th, I am cycling in the Capilano Volkswagen Cypress Challenge presented by GlotmanSimpson Cycling, raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research and care at BC Cancer.
Let me launch right into it: pancreatic cancer is a total bastard. You know those cancers that can be easily or painfully treated and they relent a little bit and maybe even go away? Pancreatic cancer is not one of them. It's ugly and unrelenting and if all we can do right now for people with pancreatic cancer is provide relief and support then that is a Very Big Thing. So let's do that.
Pancreatic cancer claimed my mum's life many years ago. I was in my teens. She had been a nursing sister on the front in WWII. Was there at the relief of Bergen-Belsen. Knew a thing or two about suffering. My pal John Fudge was barely in his sixties when it caught up with him. A fine writer and historian with lots more to offer the world. These losses leave gaps in our own little worlds and in the larger world around us.
I like the Cypress Challenge because -- like pancreatic cancer -- it is unrelenting. There's little razzamatazz or prayer-tent gospel preaching, and it's a shitload more sincere than a great many events. And, frankly, Cypress hurts. I always start at sea level and it hurts to get to the starting line.
If you can, please put a few dollars in the kitty. Imagine it paying for something as simple as nicely floofed pillows or a wig or a nice sippy cup. Because, yes, that's what it often comes down to.
Your grateful pal,
- John