MORE than 50 cyclists and support crew pedalled into Bulahdelah this week as part of Camp Quality’s annual ride for kids with cancer.

Throughout the epic 800 kilometre ride, the “Tour de Hunter” will visit Pacific Palms, Gloucester, Muswellbrook, Merriwa and Singleton before crossing the finish line in Warners Bay on Sunday.

The cyclists received a noisy welcome from students at Bulahdelah Central School and St Joseph’s Primary School with cheers and hi-five’s the order of the day.

Students at both schools also enjoyed the Camp Quality puppet show which explained what it’s like to be a kid living with cancer.

Sophie Hill-Mather was one of the many students who welcomed the riders in Bulahdelah.

10-year old Sophie was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a type of brain and spine cancer three years ago and has been supported by Camp Quality.

Sophie’s mum Kylie said Camp Quality “have been fantastic.”

“They have been great, the staff are really good and are very understanding,” Kylie said.

“They’ve supported the whole family and also organised a camp and some family days, it’s definitely the best medicine when you are sick.”

Sophie is now in remission and Kylie said, “There is a 60 percent chance she’s beaten the cancer.”

“We’re definitely one of the few lucky families,” Kylie told News Of The Area.

The students presented a donation to Camp Quality and Barry Brothers Butchers generously supplied the lunch for the riders and support crew.

Taking part in this year’s ride is Simon Morris who personally knows the value of Camp Quality.

Simon, now in his 20’s, was supported by the charity as a child with cancer.

“I am so happy to be able to give back to an organisation that gave me so much when I needed it most,” Simon said.

“This year I was given a bike, learned to ride and am thrilled to report I have already raised $17,000.”

Last year’s ride raised enough funds to support 450 families living with cancer and organisers expect this year’s ride to be even bigger.

Camp Quality is a children’s family cancer charity with the aim of creating a better life for every child living with cancer in Australia.

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN