Nearly four dozen RCMP members will once again cycle into Squamish for the annual Cops for Cancer pediatric research fundraiser Saturday (Sept. 25).
And for the 11th year, Squamish Nation member organizers hope to draw many more guests as they greet the warm-hearted hordes with a dinner, native commemorative celebrations and a silent auction at the Squamish Nation Shaker Churchon Billy Road at Stawamus.
"I'm asking of the community to feel free to come out and donate or just participate with us," said organizer Donna Billy.
This year, 45 cyclists will meet with honourary members of the touring team - young cancer patients and survivors - along their 700-kilometre route through Pemberton, Whistler, Squamish, Vancouver, Port Moody, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Burnaby, Richmond, Sechelt and Powell River.
Most of the riders have been affected by the disease in some way, which makes the journey very emotional and physically meaningful.
"We have a circle where they can share their feelings about their cancer buddy, because they do all this riding for one cancer patient," said Billy.
Some of the items in this year's auction include native arts, carvings and weaving.
"That's usually a big seller," said Billy.
Billy, a cancer survivor herself, said she started co-organizing the event with her late cousin Carol Harry, who died of breast cancer four years ago. Harry's spirit lives on with the gathering, said Billy.
"Anything to do with cancer, I try to get involved," she said. "It gets bigger and bigger each year."
Billy said a few businesses have generously donated items to the silent auction this year, but many have felt the pinch of a bad economy and have not been able to participate.
"I'm not getting very many donations this year, so that's why I'm making a plea to the public," she said. "It would be very helpful if we received donations for our silent auction. Big or small, every little bit helps and it is for a great cause."
Anyone with questions is asked to call Donna Billy at604-892-5779 or Alice Guss 604-892 5195.
