Voyageur 200 bicycle ride aims to support North Bay hospital

Stroke survivor Jeff Miller organizes the 3rd annual Voyageur 200 ride in North Bay to raise funds for the local hospital’s rehab unit. Eric Taschner reports.

In just a few days, the sound of spinning wheels will echo along the gravel backroads of North Bay as cyclists gear up for the third annual Voyageur 200. The event, organized by stroke survivor and avid cyclist Jeff Miller, raises funds for the North Bay Regional Health Centre and supports cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programs.

For Miller, cycling became a crucial part of his recovery after suffering a stroke just before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“At the time, you’re helpless,” he told CTV News. “So, the staff know what to do and know what to say. Otherwise, it’s very scary.”

Overcoming adversity

During his hospitalization, Miller faced uncertainty about his future. He was later diagnosed with aphasia, a stroke-related disorder affecting speech and comprehension.

“I had to undergo speech therapy to get back to normal,” he said.

Grateful for the care he received, Miller launched the Voyageur 200 to give back. The event offers four route options – 30, 60, 100, and 200 kilometres – taking riders through the scenic but rugged backroads of Nipissing District, starting in Corbeil.

Supporting rehabilitation efforts

Over the past three years, the ride has raised $8,000 while also increasing awareness about aphasia. Proceeds benefit the hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation unit, where patients work to regain mobility and independence.

“Patients are there rehabilitating and getting as much of their mobility and functionality back as possible,” said Tammy Morison, President of the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation. “So there are lots of different kinds of equipment that they use.”

A growing community effort

Registration for this year’s ride closed on August 9, with nearly 100 participants signed up.

Miller noted the strong support from local healthcare workers.

“We have lots of nurses helping us out and a lot of staff at the hospital in general are volunteers,” he said. “So, it’s becoming kind of a little bit of a community volunteer group.”

Through conversations with fellow riders, Miller has observed a shared enthusiasm for the cause. He says many participants are eager to push their limits while expressing gratitude for the hospital’s life-changing care.

For more details on the Voyageur 200, visit the event’s official website.