How EY’s culture empowered cancer survivor Roxanne to participate in the Tour Alberta for Cancer

Meet Roxanne, a fearless adventurer, devoted mother, partner, and cancer survivor. She’s ready to embark on a new challenge as she joins the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer for the first time this year. We are grateful for Roxanne sharing her personal journey, motivation for joining the Tour, and her inspiring outlook on life.

Roxanne’s decision to participate in the Tour was inspired by her incredible colleagues at EY, who have been avid supporters of the event for years. The EY Crankers have participated in the Tour for the past 10 years and have contributed over $300,000 through team fundraising and corporate sponsorship. But EY’s commitment to the Tour extends beyond the financial contributions—they have created a platform within their office and networks to share stories, honour lost loved ones, and promote health and wellness while making a difference in the community. Their dedication and energy motivated her to give back, set new goals, and celebrate being cancer-free while raising funds to help others.

When asked why this cause matters to her, Roxanne spoke passionately about her mother, Angella Gallon, and the amazing women in her life who have battled breast cancer. Losing her mother to metastatic breast cancer in 2011, just five months after the birth of her son Avery, was a profound loss. Roxanne’s own breast cancer diagnosis in 2022 reinforced her determination to be there for her children and prevent other families from enduring the pain of losing loved ones to this disease.

Roxanne acknowledges the progress made in cancer research and treatment protocols, which gave her a different path compared to her mother’s journey. “My cancer was identified at an earlier stage, my treatment protocol was manageable with fewer side-effects and I have ongoing support from a fantastic health care team to monitor for any changes in my health.” Her goal is now to ensure that others receive the same level of care, compassion, and opportunity to celebrate life with their loved ones.

Preparing for her very first Tour, Roxanne has been diligently building her stamina on her spin bike at home and now enjoys cycling outside in the summer. Sharing her participation within her personal and professional networks keeps her accountable and motivated. Recognizing the importance of time management, she prioritizes her training, which not only prepares her for the ride but also contributes to her overall wellness and mindset. With the option of using an e-bike this year, Roxanne appreciates the flexibility it provides, considering the toll cancer treatments have taken on her body and energy levels.

What excites her most about the Tour is the opportunity to join other survivors, supporters, and organizers who will undoubtedly inspire and motivate her. She looks forward to experiencing the sense of camaraderie, community, and the indescribable high that comes from helping others. Sharing this memorable experience with friends and colleagues adds an extra layer of joy to her journey.

Though this may be Roxanne’s first Tour, she is no stranger to embracing adventure and making the most of each day. Her positive outlook on life shines through as she sets new goals, pushes boundaries, and encourages others to step outside their comfort zones.

In closing, we were touched by a powerful memory she shared from her cancer journey.

“Last year, I set a goal to climb the Kimberley ski hill when I finished my chemotherapy treatments. This was a hike I had done once before but knew would be challenging. On the third attempt I made it to the top and the view was more spectacular than anything I had experienced before because of what the climb represented. Despite my diagnosis, I could still go on adventures, accomplish new challenges and find happiness. Every time that I felt like stopping or that I couldn’t take another step, I found heart shaped rocks along the path. Each stone pushed me to keep going and not give up. We can find strength within ourselves and in the world around us if we take a moment to look.”