The Princess Margaret Northern Pass: A Beacon of Hope in the Fight
by DC Rutherford
In the picturesque town of Bracebridge, Ontario, an event of both passion and purpose will unfold amidst the breathtaking landscape of Muskoka. The Princess Margaret Northern Pass to Conquer Cancer is now in its eighth edition. Powered by the Pass It Along Foundation, it will take place on Saturday, August 10th. This premier cycling and fundraising adventure is more than just a test of endurance through Ontario’s scenic routes. It’s a community’s united stand against cancer.
The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, located in Toronto, Ontario, are at the heart of this monumental effort. As Canada’s largest and most comprehensive cancer centre, The Princess Margaret is on the front lines. It treats over 18,000 new patients each year. The Princess Margaret’s pioneering research and clinical trials are setting new standards in cancer care. They are backed up by groundbreaking discoveries and the largest surgical oncology team in Canada. Those supporting the Northern Pass are not just part of a cycling event. They’re part of a global movement that’s leading the charge toward a future without cancer.
A engaged citizen
Few are more connected to the event than Jamie Green. He first engaged in the cause in 2019 as a rider in one of The PMCF’s other events. He was part of The Princess Margaret Ride to Conquer Cancer, Canada’s largest cycling fundraiser, cycling over 200km with his team. Then came heartbreak. In 2021, a tumour was discovered in Jamie’s brain, and his life was turned inside out. The Princess Margaret became his primary caregiver, and the hospital that he had given to gave back to him, in the most beautiful and inspiring way. Now in recovery, Green feels fortunate to have been part of The Princess Margaret’s larger community.
For some of the participants, Muskoka’s popular annual cycling fundraiser is highly personal.
“It’s a real family when it comes to The Princess Margaret,” beams Green. He goes on to describe a closely connected and supportive community, especially to those newly diagnosed with glioblastoma like he was. He’s been able to offer hope and share his experiences. From treatment advice to motivational resources, he accompanies others going through similar battles. This connection has led to meaningful exchanges and even plans to participate in events like the Northern Pass together. Throughout his journey, he adds, the incredible support from his fiancée, family, friends, and colleagues has been invaluable. It’s a safety net that’s been both motivating and comforting. He recognizes that not everyone has such a support system.
Warriors on wheels supporting cancer research
The Northern Pass isn’t merely a cycling event. It’s a mission with a heart, driven by hundreds of Canadians bound by a shared vision. The will to “Conquer Cancer In Our Lifetime.” Participants are not just cyclists. They are warriors on wheels, rallying to support everyone touched by cancer. This commitment first to fundraising and riding has proven powerful. The Princess Margaret has raised millions of dollars since the event’s inception in 2017.
Cyclists of all skill levels are welcome to join, with three routes designed to cater to everyone from casual riders to seasoned cyclists. You can ride the 40km Friends and Family Road Ride, the 100km Road Challenge, and the 160km Century Road Ride. Each route offers a unique opportunity to experience Muskoka’s natural beauty while contributing to a noble cause.
Families riding together
Two such riders are Sloane and Robert Keilty, a father-and-daughter duo from Toronto who happen to be the 2024 Northern Pass Honourary Chairs. In November 2006, Robert lost his mother to cancer. She had been cared for at The Princess Margaret before being moved to hospice care at home. There, she received compassionate attention from hospice workers until her passing. Following his mourning, he signed up for The Princess Margaret Ride to Conquer Cancer when the event was first announced, despite not being a cyclist.
He undertook this daunting task with a friend who has since lost his leg to cancer. This transformed what seemed like an insurmountable challenge into a deeply moving journey and a pivotal moment in his life. This experience led Robert to participate in the Ride annually, as a tribute to his mother and to support cancer research, a commitment he’s fulfilling by participating in the Northern Pass.
Sloane joined the Ride some seven or eight years ago in memory of her grandmother. The Keiltys are proud of their inspiring efforts. Sloane shares that lending one’s time and joining a community is a fantastic way to give.
A tangible impact on cancer research
“Showing up with your time is more of an accessible option for people,” she says. “It’s really impactful to see all of the staff and volunteers; that’s one of my favourite parts about doing charity rides, seeing all of the people that you know are going to benefit from the funds that are raised.”
“Together, we did it,” smiles Robert. “And we’ve had lots of laughs and lots of great memories ever since, and raised an awful lot of money for the hospital.”
The dedication of Northern Pass Riders and donors each year makes a tangible impact on cancer research, with proceeds directly benefiting The Princess Margaret. This support fuels the work of over 1,600 researchers and research staff, propelling The Princess Margaret to the forefront of cancer research globally. It’s this commitment to excellence that positions The Princess Margaret among the top five cancer research centres worldwide, changing how we understand, treat, and ultimately conquer cancer.
“My health right now is quite good,” says Green. “I have had a pretty remarkable recovery since being discharged. It’s been a year and a half that I’ve been out of the hospital, and I’ve been able to gain a lot of my strength and independence back.” If that’s not an inspiration to ride, to support, to conquer this terrible disease, what is?
To learn more about Northern Pass and how to get involved, please visit northernpass.ca
