IRONDames cycling in bid to battle cancer By David Lea OAKVILLE BEAVER STAFF A group of Oakville and Burlington women, dubbed the IRONDames, has started a journey, which will see its members cycle 1,000 kilometres to combat cancer. Earlier in the week, the IRONDames kicked off their fundraising challenge and began riding from Lake Louise, Alberta to Whistler, British Columbia. The group expects to arrive at Whistler this Sunday (Sept. 9). The IRONDames' goal is to raise $200,000 to construct and equip Wellspring Halton-Peel's New Cancer Exercise Facility. "We had been searching for a cycling challenge that would be equivalent to training for an Ironman and take our cycling to a new level," said Andrea Buzza, IRONDames spokesperson. Marla Ashmore, Kim Schizas, Shirley Speakman and Brenda West join Buzza on the ride. The IRONDames are veterans of numerous cycling tours and marathons, but state the trip they are attempting now is their biggest challenge to date. Buzza points out that during the course of the ride, the group will climb approximately 11,000 Andrea Buzza, spokesperson, IRONDames 7 · Wednesday, September 5, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com "We had been searching for a cycling challenge that would be equivalent to training for an Ironman and take our cycling to a new level." SUBMITTED PHOTO IRONDames: From left, Kim Schizas, Brenda West, Shirley Speakman and Andrea Buzza. metres, which she said is the equivalent of cycling up Mount Everest. The group supports the expansion of Wellspring Halton-Peel's groundbreaking exercise program as research indicates exercise has significant benefits to people coping with cancer. Wellspring Halton-Peel was established in 2000 to meet the needs of people coping with cancer in Oakville, Mississauga and surrounding communities. The centre has experienced strong growth since it opened its doors and now welcomes more than 13,000 visitors. The IRONDames said the cancer exercise program has quickly become the most popular program at Wellspring with more than 2,400 visitors to more than 450 sessions of the program. For information, visit http://irondames.ca/ wellspring. Safetynet Children & Youth Charities Because "All People Are Connected" What We Provide: · · · · Free clothing for Families Business suits for men and woman re-entering the work force Free one to one academic tutoring for children and youth Free music lessons for children and youth How You Can Help: · · You can donate your used unwanted clothing at 226 Randall Street, bottom floor, during regular business hours Volunteer your time to tutor, or teach music to a child If we can be of assistance to your family, or for more information on how you can help Please Call 905-845-7233 or Visit Us Online Today www.safetynetservices.ca