Sylvan Lake resident Cathy Janzen will see the 16th year of the Strathmore Poker Run take place in June as the event is in legacy of her brother Matt Janzen, who passed away from cancer.
All the money raised from the event will go to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.
Janzen’s son Konnor will be participating in the event and has been growing out his hair for a year now. He hopes to raise at least $800 for the foundation.
“It's the legacy,” Janzen said. “It's something that my brother started and his nephew wants to carry it on for him.”
The poker run will take place June 19, 20, 21 and will start with a head shave Friday evening at 6 p.m., with the poker ride on Saturday and a bike rodeo on Sunday.
The poker ride will include five stops in Rockyford, Carbon, Rosedale, Standard and Green Bar. Riders will pick up a card at each stop and the person who has the best hand wins.
Janzen said she is promoting the event because it was her brother’s dream. She said when he was diagnosed with cancer and was in the cancer ward, he personally saw children suffering from cancer. That’s when he decided to do something to help them and shaved his head.
“It's the committee that has carried on his dream,” Janzen said. “But for us as a family carrying on his legacy and his dream and also supporting the Kids Cancer Care Foundation. It does benefit other kids who are suffering.”
Donations are currently being accepted in Sylvan Lake at the Fireside Restaurant and Lounge, Hockey Central, Hazzard County and Open Range. Donations of $20 and over will be issued a tax receipt.