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From Diagnosis to Determination

Don Else’s Journey of Resilience at the Tour

When Don Else was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021, it was a shock for he and his wife Dorothy. As long-time participants of the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer, Don and Dorothy lived very active lifestyles and Don had been diligent about attending his yearly PSA tests as a routine part of his wellness checkups. But when his PSA levels showed a slight increase, it marked the beginning of a journey that would impact not only his personal life but also his commitment to the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Don’s cancer journey began with a slightly elevated PSA level during his annual test. Six months later, another test showed that his PSA had risen again. As a previous patient of his urologist for an unrelated issue, Don followed up, and his doctor presented him with options: they could either conduct a biopsy immediately or wait another three months and test again. Don decided to take the proactive approach, opting for a biopsy, which confirmed the presence of cancer. In the face of this diagnosis, Don was determined to make an informed decision about his treatment. He was offered the opportunity to join an online clinic that provided detailed education about his treatment options. After the session, Don felt confident and informed, telling his urologist, “I’ve had all the education I think I need; I would like to have the surgery.” His doctor laid out the two surgical options: an open surgery and a less invasive robotic surgery. With an opening available for the traditional open surgery, Don chose to proceed without delay. Within a few short weeks, he underwent surgery, a process he attributes to his overall good health and fitness, thanks to the ongoing training he had done for the Tour Alberta for Cancer.
“The worst part about it,” Don recalls with a smile, “is they wouldn’t let me get back on the bike for a few months.” Despite this short hiatus from his summer sports, he feels incredibly fortunate to have been treated so quickly and effectively by the medical team in Calgary. Reflecting on his experience, Don humbly states, “I feel like I’m not really a cancer survivor, because I never felt like I had cancer, and hopefully, it stays that way.”
A New Chapter in the Tour Don’s relationship with the Tour Alberta for Cancer dates back to its inception. He has participated in all 16 years of the event, but 2022 marked a significant milestone—it was the first year he joined as a Yellow Flag rider. Wearing the yellow pin, Don represented Albertans who have faced a cancer journey, adding a deeper meaning to his ride.
“I just want to do the ride so that it can help people get good treatment like I had,” Don explains. “It will certainly keep me riding as long as I can, and I’m glad I still can.”
    A Family’s Perspective Don’s wife, Dorothy, reflects on the whirlwind experience, saying, “When Don was diagnosed with cancer, I just couldn’t believe it. We’ve done all these cancer rides for other people and never, ever thought that one of us would come to that. It was absolutely remarkable—from the time he was diagnosed to the time they operated was less than a month. We didn’t have to worry or fret. He had amazing treatment at Rockyview Hospital.” For Don, the journey doesn’t stop with his recovery. He’s become a strong advocate for regular PSA testing, urging his friends, “Make sure you get your PSA test every year. I’m not afraid to tell them to get after it and get it done.” Riding Onward Don Else’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and informed decision-making in the face of cancer. His journey from diagnosis to recovery, and his continued participation in the Tour Alberta for Cancer, serve as an inspiration to many. Through his ride, Don honors those who have faced cancer and works to ensure that others can receive the same quality care he did. His story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can choose our path—and sometimes, that path leads to something greater than ourselves.   Support Albertans facing cancer by registering for the 2025 Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer or participate virtually in our Show Off Your Handlebars campaign this fall with no cycling or fundraising minimums required. 2025.TourAlbertaForCancer.ca