Sam Wade, whose grandfather Malcolm Wade inspired the journey, and Brian Tong spent Thursday night in Corner Brook and Friday night in Deer Lake. They are looking forward to ending their journey in St. John’s around Aug. 7.
Malcolm Wade was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008.
“Having spent last summer with him, I really got to know him and he impacted me greatly,” the younger Wade said. “I took it upon myself to do something to honour him.”
His grandfather didn’t get checked until there were symptoms, but he recovered shortly before the 20-year-olds left on their epic journey.
He’d like people to know prostate cancer affects one in six men and screening is one of the most important things you can do.
“It’s entirely preventable if you get checked regularly,” Wade said.
He trained for his trip and started out May 22 on a journey called “Pedalers For Prostate.”
They’re riding in aid of the Prostate Centre in Victoria where the grandfather was treated. So far they raised more than $11,000.
Tong wanted to tour the country, so he came along for the ride. If some money can be raised for prostate cancer, there are few better causes, he said.
It’s entirely preventable if you get checked regularly. - Sam Wade, cyclist
Tevis Bateman and Fred Tsai joined Wade and Tong on their journey but stopped in Halifax.
Tong said this journey will open the door for other bicycle tours, including a run to San Francisco from Vancouver. They’ve also met a great number of other touring cyclists.
He’s enjoyed Newfoundland and Labrador so far. There’s been sunshine and heat, but there’s also been some frosty drizzle to contend with. A lightning storm wasn’t too much of a challenge because they stayed the night in a Corner Brook hotel.
“The ride in yesterday (Thursday) was quite nice,” Tong said. “You’ve got the crazy hills and the rain. It was like the whole Newfoundland experience.
“We started off with the mountains and we’re going to finish of with hills in St. John’s. The trip has come full circle.”
Their website is www.pedalersforprostate.com.
