Last September, Tanner Levesque decided to organize, with the help of his parents, a fundraising event in memory of his grandfather, Howard Fairburn of Webbwood, who died of lung cancer in May. Young Tanner, escorted by a police cruiser, family and friends, decided to ride his bike from his home in Val Therese to the Revenue Canada Taxation Centre in New Sudbury. He raised $1600.00.

This year, Tanner set out on his 2nd Bike Ride for Lung Cancer Research, repeating the 16 kilometre course, with his sister, Emmaleigh Levesque and friend, Kayley Larochelle. Tanner raised a total of $2285.00. Tanner’s mother, Leeann Levesque, was able to obtain a sponsorship from her employer, Suzanne Goudreau, owner of the local A & W Restaurant who matched Tanner’s earnings, doubling his fundraising total to $4570.00. Tanner and his family are thankful for the kind and generous donation given by A & W Restaurant.

On Friday, October 12, 2012 Tanner, Emmaleigh and Kayley received a Certificate of Appreciation from Patricia Clizia of the Canadian Cancer Society at Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School. In total, Tanner has raised $6170.00 for Lung Cancer Research.

“We are so proud of Tanner for using his gifts and reaching out to help others in his community.” Louisa Bianchin, principal of the school stated. “Tanner is making a difference; we hope that Tanner will ride his bike again next year for lung cancer research, and one day, a cure for cancer will be found.”