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Collingwood cyclist riding to New York in support of kid's camp

David Adams will be cycling from Toronto to New York City starting Sept. 14 in support of camp for children who have received a cancer diagnosis
2022-09-08Adams
David Adams will be one of 50 cyclists who will be cycling 850 kilometres from Toronto to New York City from Sept. 14 to 18 to raise money for Campfire Circle, a camp for children who have received a cancer diagnosis.

David Adams wanted to find a special way to celebrate his 60th birthday this year, and he found it through giving back.

The Collingwood Cycling Club member will be one of 50 cyclists who will be riding 850 kilometres from Toronto to New York City from Sept. 14 to 18 to raise money for Campfire Circle, a camp for children who have received a cancer diagnosis.

Called R2//NYC, the goal of the entire group is to raise $500,000 for Campfire Circle. With one week left to go until their departure, the group has hit just shy of $488,000.

“My father died from pancreatic cancer. I think cancer touches all of our lives, but I think when you see the pain and suffering adults go through... it would be that much more challenging for a child who probably doesn’t understand what they’re going through,” said Adams.

“It’s a really worthwhile cause,” he said.

When Adams turned 60 in February, he says it made him reflect on the life he’s led so far, and how he’d like to live it moving forward.

“I think, as you get older, you start to figure out that the things you maybe once thought were important, maybe aren’t as important anymore,” he said. “To me, it’s the importance of family, relationships.”

“If you get a diagnosis like that, your perspective on what’s important probably also changes in an instant,” said Adams.

Campfire Circle (formerly Camp Ooch and Camp Trillium) is a privately funded charity which was originally founded in 1983. About 1,500 kids with a cancer diagnosis attend the camp annually.

Individually, Adams surpassed his personal $7,500 goal this week, but he says every little bit helps, especially as all the funds raised go directly to the camp.

“A week ago, I was sitting below my goal,” he said. “It’s been really gratifying to see people respond. It confirms in my mind that people really identify with the cause and want to help out.”

Adams says the physical part of the journey is a challenge for him, as an 850-kilometre trek over five days will be the longest he’s ever cycled.

“We started (training) early in the season. Hopefully, I’ll be ready for it,” he said.

For more information or to donate to Adams’ fundraising, visit his donation site here.


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Jessica Owen

About the Author: Jessica Owen

Jessica Owen is an experienced journalist working for Village Media since 2018, primarily covering Collingwood and education.
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