June 25, 2007 (Calgary, Alberta) – Over the course of the weekend, 425 participants in the Alberta Cancer Foundation’s Tour of Courage helped raise $1.2 million for cancer research, education, prevention and care for people throughout Alberta.

“We are overwhelmed by the commitment that the participants and their donors have shown in raising funds for essential cancer programs in this province,” said Linda Mickelson, CEO of the Alberta Cancer Foundation. “The success of the Tour of Courage means that we are able to conduct groundbreaking research, fund important screening and prevention programs, and enhance the excellent quality of care that patients receive at Alberta Cancer Board in Calgary and around the province.”

On Friday, Lance Armstrong addressed 170 people including patients and family members from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in an inspirational presentation courtesy of ARC Resources. Saturday saw a group of 45 top-fundraisers and elite cyclists joined Lance, Steve Bauer and Eddy Merckx for a challenging 133 km, three hour Summit Ride through scenic Lake Louise to Radium and back.

And on Sunday, 210 participants for the inaugural Tour of Courage Community ride included survivors, patients and avid cyclists excited about the opportunity to ride with the three cycling legends.

“It was an exhilarating experience,” said Dr. Nigel Brockton, a participant in the Community Ride and a cancer epidemiologist who works at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. “As a two-time cancer survivor, I know first-hand the impact of the disease on the lives of patients, family members and friends. The work that we are able to do as a result of this event will help us make important advancements that will mean better, earlier treatment and lives saved.”

The top fund raiser for the Summit Ride was Kerry Powell, who brought in a truly impressive $45,500. Raising the most pledges for the Community Ride was Dallas Smith with $22,995 going towards programs funded through the Alberta Cancer Foundation.

“I want to thank everyone who made such a difference this weekend,” said Linda Mickelson. “From the participants to the donors, from the volunteers to all of our corporate sponsors — they have all taken us further down the road to a cancer free future for Alberta.”

This year alone, 13,000 Albertans will be diagnosed with cancer and 81,000 are
currently living with the disease. Half of those have preventable cancers, but only half of them will be cured.

The Alberta Cancer Board, through the fundraising support of the Alberta Cancer Foundation, is committed to change that by 2025 by having 35 per cent fewer people developing cancer, 50 per cent fewer people dying of cancer, and support for every Alberta living with cancer that eliminates or reduces their suffering.