CN Cycle for CHEO 2025: Here’s what you need to know about fundraiser event

Joining us today to tell us about the impact of your donation are Dr. Nirav Thacker who is a Hematologist and Oncologist at CHEO and cancer survivor Charlie.

The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario’s (CHEO) largest cycling event to raise funds for pediatric oncology care and research is taking place next month in Ottawa.

The CN Cycle for CHEO is taking place on May 4. aiming to raise awareness and $2 million.

“I had stage 2 ovarian cancer, (and) I’ve just finished treatment in July and I’m excited to cycle to help other kids,” Charlie, a cancer survivor, told CTV Morning Live Wednesday.

When asked about her treatment at CHEO, she said that the staff helped her in every way possible, citing the oncologist, cardiologist and manager. She adds that participating in the event is a way to say thank you to “all of them.”

In addition to Charlie, Easton and Ibrahim are CHEO’s three ambassadors this year, forming the McDonald’s Dream Team.

“These young ambassadors and their families know first-hand what the patients at CHEO are going through. Their commitment of time, energy and enthusiasm inspires us all to support the crucial work devoted to ending pediatric cancer. The courage these young people bring to this event makes us so proud to present them to you,” says CHEO on its website.

Dr. Nirav Thacker, a hematologist and oncologist at CHEO, says the hospital’s aim is not only to cure cancer through finding new cutting-edge technology, but also to do so without any compromises, while giving families the support they need.

“CN Cycle is not just a fundraiser, it’s actually a lifeline that provides hope to families and children whose cancers are difficult to treat and also have significant long-term effects,” said Dr. Thacker.

He says that patients like Charlie are the starting point and the ending point of what CHEO is doing, noting that they are at the centre of the cycling event.

“They are the biggest inspiration and motivation for us,” he added. “So, thank you Charlie.”

All routes for CHEO’s largest fundraiser event begin and end at the Canadian War Museum, taking cyclists and walkers along some of the most beautiful routes in the capital’s region. The event includes cycling routes, walking routes along the Ottawa River and activities and entertainment for kids of all ages.

In 2024, CN Cycle for CHEO raised a record $2.175 million, where more than 7,000 participants showed up for the 17th annual event, despite the rain in Ottawa.

Currently, there are 500 children in active care at CHEO.

Stage 2 cancer is larger than stage 1 cancer and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes, but not to other parts of the body.

Donations can be made online.