Cancer diagnosis inspires Ontario doctor’s $80K fundraiser

Last August, Peterborough, Ont.’s Doctor Terry May, a dedicated runner and emergency department physician–was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma–a rare and aggressive cancer that forms in the bile ducts. But instead of focusing solely on his own fight, May chose to channel his energy into a greater cause: raising awareness and funds for cholangiocarcinoma research.

He launched Dr. May’s Vile Bike 5K, an event aimed at supporting research and increasing access to molecular testing for those battling the disease. The inaugural race quickly sold out and raised more than eight times its $10,000 fundraising goal–collecting a remarkable $81,050 as of Wednesday.

Set for June 1 in Selwyn, Ont., the 5K welcomes everyone–from competitive runners to families out for a leisurely walk.

May, who works at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), is a seasoned endurance athlete, having completed marathons, an ultramarathon and an Ironman triathlon.

“I started this race with my wife Chris and friend Todd to raise money for C3 with the hope of increasing awareness about cholangiocarcinoma and increasing patient access to the molecular testing required to help fight this disease,” Dr. May said in a press release.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Canadian Cholangiocarcinoma Collaborative (C3) through the Canadian Cancer Society, focusing on underfunded research in early detection and treatments strategies.

A sold-out event

The demand to participate in the event far surpassed expectations. Originally planning for 250 attendees, organizers quickly exceeded their limit of 350 and capped the total number of participants at 400.

“We are very happy to see that demand for our event has been so high and so positive,” the event website says. “However, we don’t have the space on our course to keep unlimited crowds safe.” For those still hoping to get involved, volunteer opportunities are available.

“I know I am very fortunate to be surrounded by amazing and caring colleagues, friends and, of course, family who have made this difficult journey as easy as it possibly could be,” Dr. May said. “I have such gratitude for the support we have received for this race. It has been overwhelming.”

Race director Todd Harris added: “Terry has never been one for the spotlight, but finding a way to turn his diagnosis into an opportunity to help the C3 mission makes sense to all that know him, and the amazing response to this new event speaks to his place in the heart of our community.”

Prizes & incentives

Donations are rewarded with custom prizes at the following milestones:

• $250 raised — Vile Bile 5k baseball-style hat
• $1000 raised — hand-made Vile Bile 5k pottery mug
• $1500 raised — hand-made earrings by Ziisbaakwod Beading (@sisabakwatbeading)

If you wish to make a donation, click here.

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