An Extended Tour: Art Brochu Cycles for Cancer

At 80 years young, 3-year Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer participant, Art Brochu, is gearing up for an extended Tour this summer—one that combines his passion for cycling with a heartfelt mission to support those affected by cancer. This summer, Art plans to cycle over 2,000 kilometers through 17 Alberta communities, all in the name of cancer awareness and fundraising.This ambitious endeavor through the Alberta Cancer Foundation’s signature event, Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer, holds a deeply personal significance for Art, as he shares his inspiring story and invites others to join him in his mission.

A Personal Journey:

Art’s motivation stems from a lifetime touched by the impact of cancer. From losing his grandmother and mother to cancer early in his life, to supporting his infant son and wife through their own diagnosis and treatment, Art’s journey has been marked by both loss and resilience. Most recently, the passing of his sister and the current cancer journey of a close cousin, serve as powerful reminders of the urgent need for cancer research and support.

“There isn’t any family that has not been affected by cancer in one way or another. Cancer does not discriminate who it affects; old, young, man, woman and/or child, it doesn’t seem to care. Thousands of people are suffering from so many different types of cancers and are going through fear, pain and the unknown of what the future may have instore for them, even if there is a future. It’s my wish that we can all come together and help to do whatever it takes to find the cures and treatments so that all cancers can be eliminated.” Art Brochu

Pedaling for Progress:

Art’s Tour of Alberta isn’t just a weekend ride of 200-kilometers. He’s embarking on 17 separate 200-kilometer Tours – one in each Albertan community that hosts a cancer center, totalling over 2,000+ kilometers of cycling. Drawing on his experience participating in various cycling events across Canada and Alberta, Gran Fondo events and national/international races, Art aims to leverage his love of cycling and the attention garnered by his journey to shine a spotlight on the importance of cancer research and patient support services.

The Route:

Art’s journey kicks off in Fort McMurray on June 10, with a short break for the 2024 Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer mid-way through, and concludes in Medicine Hat on July 29. Each community, including Peace River, Grand Prairie, Lloydminster, Drumheller, presents an opportunity to connect with locals, share his story, and rally support for the cause.

The Alberta Cancer Foundation will be joining Art for a kick-off ceremony at the Fort McMurray Community Cancer Centre on June 10. The event will include light refreshments, brief acknowledgments and well wishes from representatives from the cancer centre, Fort McMurray community and Tour participants from the surrounding area. Art will also be included in the festival program at the 2024 Enbridge Tour Alberta on July 20, and then celebrated once more at his finishing location, in a wrap-up event at the Margaret E. Yuill Cancer Centre in Medicine Hat on July 29.

The Cause:

The Alberta Cancer Foundation is the official fundraising partner for every Alberta Health Services cancer centre across the province.

Through the cancer centres, Albertans facing cancer and their families can access leading-edge treatments and compassionate support services, as close to home as possible.

As the number of people in Alberta diagnosed with cancer increases, so does the need to further enhance and expand cancer treatment and care options across the province. Funds raised for the Alberta Cancer Foundation in support of local cancer centres help improve the patient experience through new medical equipment, enhanced treatment and care services, wellness initiatives and specialized training for oncology staff. Ultimately, creating more moments for the 23,000 Albertans diagnosed with cancer each year.

How you can help:

Whether through donations, sponsorship or spreading awareness and encouragement, everyone can play a part in Art’s journey. Contributions to Art’s fundraising page for the 2024 Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer, will directly support vital research and patient care initiatives throughout the province. Additionally, those near his planned route are encouraged to join Art for a 200-kilometer ride in their community, standing in solidarity against cancer and making a tangible difference. Supporters can track Art’s progress and access his planned stops and cycling routes through his personal fundraising page, staying connected every step of the way.

As Art embarks on this monumental endeavor, let’s rally behind him with unwavering support. Follow his progress, spread the word, and consider contributing to his cause. Whether you’re cheering him on from the sidelines or joining him for a training ride in your community, every show of support makes a difference. Check out his community stop dates below and mark your calendar to be a part of this inspiring cause:

Fort McMurray Community Cancer Centre: June 10