A group of dedicated cyclists will stop in Sarnia on Wednesday as part of a week-long trek across southern Ontario to raise awareness and funds for Pancreatic Cancer Canada.
Director of Marketing and Communications Beth Ruby said the event, 7 Days: Cycling for Survival, offers cyclists different ways to participate.
Ruby said this year, about 20 participants are doing the full seven-day ride, but in total, there are nearly 60 riders.
"We have a number of riders who are also riding a partial week or just on the weekend. We also have a new offering this year called the Century Ride, which is going to be on the last day [in Guelph] where people can join just to do a 100k," she said. "We also have cyclists that are riding virtually so people can participate from across the country."
The ride began in Guelph on May 26 and the first day ended in St. Thomas. The travel route -- which covers over 1,000 kilometres -- includes Leamington, Sarnia, and Stratford.
Riders are expected to arrive in Sarnia on Wednesday and will leave for Stratford on Thursday.
The final leg of the ride will loop around Guelph on May 31 and June 1, ending in Riverside Park.
Ruby said 7 Days was founded by Gord Townley in memory of his mother, Lorraine, who lost her life to pancreatic cancer.
"It began as a family tribute and has now grown into a national event," she said.
Pancreatic cancer is currently considered to be the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada.
"Here in Canada, just over 7,000 people are diagnosed with the disease each year," Ruby said. "What makes this disease so tough is that it's most often diagnosed at stage three and four when it's already spread, which is why the five-year survival rate for the disease is just 10 per cent."
Now in its 14th year, the initiative is expected to surpass a fundraising total of over $2 million for pancreatic cancer research and support services.
Last year, $317,000 was raised and Ruby said this year they aim to bring in $400,000.
"We usually raise funds right up until a few weeks after the event," she said.
Donations can be made online.