By BRIDGET SCOTT
IF ANYBODY has reason to take part in the Ride to Conquer Cancer, it’s Leigh Ryan.
The Cranbourne North teen will tackle the trek once again, with aims to raise much-needed funds to help those suffering, including his mother Tracey who has terminal cancer.
Leigh said his main reason for completing such an event was to remind those suffering that there was support out there.
“I’m not an academic but I am a sportsman,” he said.
“This way I can do what I love and raise money at the same time.”
Leigh attends Sports Education Development Australia (SEDA) and last year lost a classmate, Jayden, to osteosarcoma – Leigh said the 17-year-old was an inspiration and kept fighting to his last breath.
Leigh will ride in honour of Jayden, as well as his Aunty Jo, and great family friend Sarah Jane, who both lost their lives to cancer, as well as for his mother.
He said while she had been diagnosed as terminal, she didn’t let this stop her. Leigh will ride with a classmate, a teacher, Jayden’s father and possibly others on 25 October.
He said he had decided to train more this year than last year for the 200-kilometre ride.
If you would like to donate to Leigh, visit http://ml15.conquercancer.org.au/site/TR/Events/Melbourne2015?px=1446422&pg=personal&fr_id=1190