WEYBURN – Weyburn resident Mary Shirkie is riding her bike a lot through the summer, as she is attempting to raise money towards cancer research and support for families as part of the “Great Cycle Challenge”.
She began taking the challenge in 2018, and has ridden every year since then, raising over $44,600 so far.
Mary began this year’s campaign on Aug. 1, and will ride five days a week until Aug. 31, with the goal of raising $10,000 and riding 350 km in August. As of Wednesday, she had raised $1,926 towards that goal, and had ridden 91.4 km.
“When I first started in 2018, I had hopes of maybe raising $200 or $300, but I ended up raising almost $5,000. I have very generous friends and family who donate,” said Mary, adding there are some businesses in the city who have been supporting her as well.
The Great Cycle Challenge raises money for cancer research and support programs for families whose children are battling cancer.
Part of the inspiration for her riding is that she lost both of her parents to cancer. “I’ve experienced sitting by the bed of a person dying of cancer. Kids should not have to go through that,” she said. “I have kids and grandkids, and I’m blessed that they are healthy, and I want to do whatever I can for them.”
Mary is taking pledges and donations now, both online and in person, and donations can be made on her behalf until Sept. 30.
To donate online and to track her progress, go to the website at greatcyclechallenge.ca/Riders/MaryShirkie.
For those who would prefer donating to her with cash or a cheque, she can be contacted by text or phone at 306-891-9639 and she will pick up donations in person.
