My Ride, My Reason

My ride journey began with my mum, Kim — my teammate, my anchor, my whole world. And it continues today, fuelled by hope.

Back in 2017, Mum decided to start riding to get fit. A simple decision but one that, unknowingly, may have saved her life. I know it’s the reason she’s standing beside me today.

 For some of the less, shall we say passionate riders in the room, if you’re anything like me, you probably dusted off your bike just a few weeks ago, pumped up the tyres, and rode down the street to get a few Ks in before today.

That was Mum too — back then. Riding for her was getting on her bike and shoving off hoping she’d go forward and not sideways. Mum had no idea there was a lot more science to riding than just adjusting the seat height and ringing the bell. And, she didn’t think it would hurt so much! 

After a few weeks, mum assumed the pain and discomfort she felt would fade once she got used to being on the bike. But it didn’t.

She started chatting with a colleague who helped her transition into Lycra and get a proper bike fit. But even then, the pain persisted. Something wasn’t right.

After more conversations and a growing sense of unease, Mum finally went for a check-up.

An ultrasound followed. And on the 24th of March 2017, they found a tumour on her ovary.

Hearing the words “You have ovarian cancer” was the last thing any of us expected — and all because of a sore feeling on a bike.

At the time, I was still pretty oblivious to the true impact of cancer. I knew it was out there. I knew my dad had melanoma. A close family friend had been diagnosed with lower intestine cancer that spread throughout her body. The list went on.

But when Mum told me that her own mother had also been diagnosed with ovarian, cervical, and bowel cancer — and at a young age – it hit me like a wave. I suddenly wondered: Is this my future too?

I turned to Google — and it became my worst enemy. My doctor told me I was too young to worry, that there was no point doing any tests unless I already had cancer. No early detection. No reassurance. Just fear.

Mum was one of the lucky ones. There was only one tumour. Surgery to remove both ovaries and her uterus was all she needed.

But luck should never be the deciding factor between life and death.

While recovering, Mum saw an ad for this ride — back when it was called the Ride to Conquer Cancer. She made a promise: while she was fit and able, she would ride. She would fight cancer in every way she could.

The following year, I joined her. And every year since, we ride — side by side.

I ride with hope — hope that early detection becomes a reality, so no one has to wait until it’s too late.

I ride with hope - Hope that treatment becomes kinder, gentler, and more humane.

 I ride with hope — hope that one day, families no longer live in fear of a cancer diagnosis.

I’m on a mission to defeat cancer.

Cancer doesn’t just affect one person, it shakes up families, friends and communities. This year, I will be taking a stand against it. 

In October 2026, I’m joining a community of passionate riders to cycle 200km to raise vital funds for cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

Every dollar pushes us closer to breakthroughs at the Perkins where brilliant researchers work tirelessly to find life-saving answers for some of the toughest cancers. But they also need our help to ensure their vital progress continues– no matter what.

 100% of the funds we raise will go back to the Perkins giving cancer researchers the support to continue their life-saving work so that our loved ones can live longer, healthier lives.

The Ride is more than just a test of endurance—it’s about unity. I'll ride alongside an incredible group of people who believe, as I do, that cancer can be conquered. Your support can turn this belief into reality.

I can’t do this alone. Will you help me to reach this goal?

Whether you join me on the Ride or support my fundraising, your generosity could be the key to saving our loved ones from this disease.

Together, we can beat cancer!