Long ride for cancer cause

The annual Life Cycle for Canteen reached Busselton on Monday, completing its 21st ride for cancer.

The three-day trek from Bassendean to Busselton saw 125 participants raise money for Canteen, helping young people adapt to a cancer diagnosis.

Life Cycle has become Canteen’s biggest community fundraiser and this year the aim is to reach $2 million.

On Saturday, riders and crew set out to tackle the 235km ride and event coordinator, Jenny Aramini said the event demonstrated the impact Canteen had on cancer patients and their families.

“There’s a section of the event where riders slow down and travel alongside some of our members. They have a chance to get to know them and understand how cancer has impacted their lives. The riders are filled with a new energy and sense of purpose following that section of the ride,” she said.

“There is always a few little hiccups and surprises but we have superb support and have gathered such a large community of delightful people who love the ride.”

Canteen committee member Matt Bonser said cancer affected everyone in the community and to build awareness of the support available was heartwarming.

“It was the first event that I attended after my Dad’s passing in 2013 after he battled lymphoma. It inspired me and I think it is so crucial to WA because our services wouldn’t be possible without this,” he said.

Help Life Cycle reach its goal by donating at https://www.raiseit.org.au/event/lifecycle-onroad.