A farmer from Chilliwack is taking on a massive challenge. Juschka Clarke is gearing up to cycle 7, 000 kilometers across Canada. She is not doing this alone. She is part of a team of eight cyclists. Their mission? To raise funds for the Terry Fox Foundation. This journey is not just about the distance. It is about honouring loved ones lost to cancer.

The ride is part of the National Ride of Hope. This event marks the 45th anniversary of Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope. The team will cycle 220 kilometers each day for 32 days straight. Starting on June 9, they will cover a vast distance. Their goal is to raise $1 million for cancer research. As of May 30, they had already raised $540, 000. This is a significant amount, but they aim to exceed their goal.

Clarke's motivation is deeply personal. She is cycling in memory of her mother, Inge Drews. Drews battled cancer three times and passed away two years ago. Clarke's mother left behind a legacy. She ran a small commercial egg farm, Hazelsprings Organics. This farm is now in the hands of her family. Clarke's twin daughters, Meghan and Emily, will manage the farm during her absence. They will also volunteer at the start of the ride.

Preparation for this ride is intense. Clarke has been fitting in long rides and weight-lifting sessions. She acknowledges that the physical demands are immense. However, the emotional toll might be even greater. Each team member has been touched by cancer. Clarke expects the journey to be emotionally challenging. She plans to carry the names of donors' loved ones with her. This will serve as a constant reminder of why she is pushing through.

The team includes members from various parts of Canada. They will start from the Terry Fox sculptures at BC Place in Vancouver. Their final destination is St. John's, Newfoundland. This is where Terry Fox began his marathon. Along the way, people can join the national team for parts of the route. There are also smaller rides organized across the country. This inclusivity adds to the impact of their mission.

Clarke's journey is a testament to her dedication and resilience. She is not a professional cyclist. She has a farm to run and a family to support. Yet, she is committed to this cause. Her story is one of perseverance and hope. It is a reminder that ordinary people can do extraordinary things. They can make a difference in the fight against cancer.

CANCER RESEARCH FUNDRAISING

Cycling for a Cause: A Farmer's Journey Across Canada

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