Shannon Johnson
Held by Shannon Johnson
Tour de Cure presented by Wheaton Precious Metals
7 supporters
3 months remaining
Please support me in the Tour de Cure!
In August of 2024, I will be embarking on a cycling challenge, riding over 200 km over 2 days. It will be hard and it will be long, but it does not compare to the challenge of those facing cancer.
I will be riding for my friend Neda who supported my ride since 2016. I met Neda in 2010 when she became a Fitness Leader at the YMCA. She was a shining light, positive, inspiring and joyous! I will always see her dancing in my classes like a butterfly, humming along to the music!
Neda believed in supporting the Ride as she appreciated the BC Cancer Foundation, the doctors, nurses and everyone who provided care and support along her journey. Neda passed Dec.14, 2023. I will never forget our time together and I ride for you!
This is her story:
"My story started in 2016, beginning with severe abdominal pain that initially went undiagnosed. I was eventually referred to a gynecologist and was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer. I had genetic testing and I was told my cancer genes were from my father's side.
After the diagnosis, things happened fast. My emotions had to keep up with the reality of cancer. the first chemo caused anaphylactic reaction that almost killed me. The angel nurses saved me! I did not want to fight cancer. How could I fight my own body? I just wanted to heal and free myself from cancer.
A huge change had taken place in my life. I was no longer my super active energetic healthy self. I had to rely on others. Many friends left and many new ones appeared. the change was drastic, quick and painful. someone said that change is not painful, resisting change is! My reality no longer matched with the reality of the people around me. I was looking at death in the eye while people were planning their vacations!
Fast forward, after Chemo and hysterectomy and double mastectomy, cancer returned in 2020. More chemo and depression and counselling, more tumors in 2023! I am scheduled to have a surgery in a month!
I still love life and want to enjoy every moment; I am realistic but fierce and will hold on to life for as long as I can! Cancer Center in PG has been my refuge and my support They kept me alive and well. YMCA has also been my life line; It kept me active and hopeful!"
Funds raised through the Tour de Cure will support life-saving research and enhancements to care at BC Cancer, bringing hope to cancer patients in British Columbia and making an impact around the world.
My fundraising is to provide crutial funding to my community to support those affected with Cancer and their families. Together we can make a difference!
Thank you so much for your support!
