For the second time, Jim Maybee will be hopping on his bike and taking off on a two-day trek from Vancouver to Seattle.
The Ride to Conquer Cancer, which began in 1935, will be taking place on June 14 to 15. All funds will go to the BC Cancer Foundation.
“I was intrigued because I had been looking for something to do for the cause, and since I’m into cycling it just made sense,” said Maybee, who runs Trailheads Bike and Ski Repairs.
Maybee was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2001 and, although cured, cancer has been present in his life through the loss of friends and family.
“It’s made me more aware that nobody is immune,” said Maybee. “We have to do our best to figure out a cure so we don’t lose good people to this disease.”
In order to ride, Maybee must raise $2,500. His overall goal is $3,000, which will go towards juvenile cancer, a cause that Maybee personally selected.
Maybee’s own children, Olivia and Cole, as well as stories at last year’s race of children diagnosed with cancer, inspired Maybee to focus his energy on helping the children.
Maybee will be riding for the Riders for Ryders team, which has raised over $1 million for cancer research since 2009.
Last year, Maybee travelled about 265 kilometres during the ride, but this year he’s taking the challenge route, which covers more than 300 km. of trail.
“I want to show people that I’m willing to go further and harder and get out of my comfort zone,” said Maybee.
“It’s hard to ask people for money but at the same time this isn’t going to get done if somebody doesn’t hold feet to the fire and say, ‘hey, we have to this.’”
To donate to Maybee’s ride, go to www.conquercancer.ca and search his name.