Cross Canada cycling journey for organ donation to pass through Strathmore

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Beginning May 26, Stéphane Herbert will begin a cross-Canada cycling journey in order to raise awareness about organ donation, encourage others to become doners, and raise funds for the Maison des Greffés Lina Cyr (Lina Cyr Transplant House).

Along Herbert’s journey, he will be passing through Strathmore, approximately June 4, en route to Brooks.

“Four years ago, I gave a kidney to my friend. Even though I did that, I want to prove to everyone that life can go forward and continue happily and I am up to that challenge,” said Herbert. 

The route will span from Vancouver to Montreal, aiming to be completed in approximately 34 days. Overall, the distance covered will equate to over 4,000 kilometers. This will see Herbert travelling over 140 kilometers on a daily basis.

Across Canada, there are over 4,500 patients waiting for organ transplants. On an annual basis, over 250 people die while awaiting an organ donor. 

The Maison des Greffés Lina Cyr is a non-profit organization which has provided support for over 43,000 transplant patients since its opening in 1994. 

Herbert said he has previously completed cycling rides across Quebec, but has yet to attempt a feat of this distance. 

“The goal is to raise around $30,000 for the Maison des Greffés Lina Cyr. Through a previous connection, I was in contact already with them for this endeavor,” he said. “I am more excited than nervous about the journey. I hope that people can follow me and encourage me in this journey.”

Support provided by the Transplant House to patients ranges both from those awaiting organs, as well as for those who are recovering post-surgery.

According to the Government of Canada, less than 25 per cent of Canadians are registered as organ donors. 

One organ donor can save up to eight lives. Tissue and eye donors may be able to improve the lives of up to 75 more.

For those who are suffering from severe chronic kidney disease, their quality of life and life expectancy can improve dramatically if they are able to receive a transplant and be treated with dialysis. 

Registration as an organ donor varies by province. In Alberta, registration is completed entirely online, and you do not need to sign a consent form. Confirmation of consent may be printed post registration and kept for personal records. 

While most donors register consent to donate after they die, living organ donors who are the age of majority and who are in good health are able to donate a kidney, part of their liver, and/or a lobe of their lung. 

“Stéphane’s journey not only demonstrates his resilience but also highlights the incredible need for organ donors in Canada,” said Micheline Cyr Asselin, executive director of La Maison des Greffés Lina Cyr. “Every kilometer he rides brings us closer to saving lives.”

Herbert’s journey can be followed on social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.