Every cancer journey is unique, but no one should have to face it alone.
This year, as riders make their way to Prince Edward Island in support of Wellspring, a group of inspiring Wellspring Champions will be sharing their stories of resilience, hope, and the impact of community. Their experiences remind us why events like this matter: they help ensure that people living with cancer and their loved ones can continue to access Wellspring’s programs and support at no cost.
We invite you to meet our 2026 Wellspring Champions, learn about their journeys, and support the event.
Eldon Wong
Eldon never expected a routine commitment to staying healthy would lead to a diagnosis of Stage 4 prostate cancer.
After noticing concerning symptoms and advocating for additional testing, an MRI and subsequent biopsy confirmed that his cancer had spread to his bones and lymph nodes. Today, Eldon is participating in a Phase 3 clinical trial and continues to face his diagnosis with grace, faith, and optimism.
Throughout his journey, Eldon has been supported by his family, friends, and his church community. He also found an unexpected source of strength through Wellspring Westerkirk House.
After learning about Wellspring during a visit to Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre, Eldon decided to stop by. The welcoming environment and exercise programs quickly became an important part of his life. Nearly a year later, he continues to participate and values the encouragement, friendship, and understanding he has found there.
As a Wellspring Champion, Eldon hopes to raise awareness about the importance of regular health screenings, particularly annual PSA testing, and encourage others facing cancer to seek support and community.
Christine Stiles
For Christine, cycling has always been more than a sport; it has been a source of strength, joy, and healing.
A lifelong cyclist and former competitive racer, Christine leaned on cycling throughout her breast cancer journey. Diagnosed with breast cancer and a rare TP53 genetic mutation, she underwent chemotherapy and a double mastectomy. Because of the risks associated with her diagnosis, radiation treatment was not an option. The TP53 mutation puts her at risk for future blood cancers like leukemia or MDS, meaning a lifetime of ongoing management.
When Christine turned to Wellspring this past year, she found meaningful peer support through conversations with others who understood the challenges of living with cancer. Support that also carried her through difficult days.
As a Wellspring Champion, she is proud to support the riders who are raising funds for cancer support programs and hopes to encourage others through her story of resilience and determination.
Irina Lisina
When Irina was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2022, she was preparing to celebrate her 40th birthday, advancing her career, and raising two young children.
Like many people facing cancer, she and her family were devastated by the diagnosis. After surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, Irina was left physically and emotionally exhausted as she began the long process of recovery.
Everything changed when her physiotherapist referred her to Wellspring’s Cancer Exercise program.
Since joining Wellspring in April 2023, Irina has embraced a wide range of programs, including Cancer Exercise, yoga, Chi Life, Nourish, sound meditation, relaxation programs, and Healing Journey. Through these programs, she found the support, understanding, and resources she needed to rebuild her physical and emotional well-being.
Today, Wellspring remains an essential part of her healing journey. As a Wellspring Champion, Irina hopes to give back to the community that has supported her and help ensure others can continue to access Wellspring’s programs and services when they need them most.
William Spencer Warlow
William’s connection to Wellspring began years before his own cancer diagnosis.
In 2018, he accompanied his mother, Corinne, when she was selected as a Wellspring Champion (formerly known as Warriors) for the ride from Oakville to Las Vegas. Witnessing the strength of the Wellspring community left a lasting impression on him.
In April 2026, William was diagnosed with Stage 2 oral cancer. Just weeks later, he underwent extensive surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital, including a partial glossectomy, neck dissection, and reconstructive procedures. Since then, he has focused on healing one day at a time while embracing a remarkable personal milestone: ending a 16-year smoking addiction and committing fully to his recovery.
Cycling has always been a passion for William, from BMX riding as a child to mountain biking as an adult. While he is not yet physically ready to cycle in Pedal to PEI, returning to the bike has become a powerful symbol of recovery and hope.
As a Wellspring Champion, William is sharing his story to honour the impact Wellspring had on his mother, celebrate the support it provides him, and inspire others who are navigating life after a cancer diagnosis.
Amina Saeed
When Amina first walked through the doors of Wellspring Birmingham Gilgan House, she immediately felt something she desperately needed: belonging.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2025, Amina’s journey quickly became far more complicated than she could have imagined. Alongside chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, she experienced a stroke, multiple hospitalizations, serious infections, and countless moments of uncertainty. Through it all, Wellspring became a lifeline.
From meditation and exercise programs to nutrition support and peer connections, Wellspring provided a space where Amina felt understood without having to explain herself. The compassion she found helped her rediscover hope and redefine her sense of self beyond her diagnosis.
Today, Amina is cancer-free and focused on recovery, but her connection to Wellspring remains as important as ever. During the difficult early days of treatment, through the challenges of a stroke and serious infections, and now as she navigates life after cancer, Wellspring has been a constant source of support. It has helped her face uncertainty, build confidence for the future, and find strength at every stage of her journey.
As a Wellspring Champion, Amina hopes to share her story so others know they are not alone and can discover the same sense of connection and support that has carried her through both the darkest moments of cancer and the path forward beyond it.
In her own words, “There are days when I feel down, or feel worried about the future, but coming to Wellspring helps me to become strong enough to continue on. I hope others will do the same.”
The stories of our Wellspring Champions highlight the power of community, connection, and support throughout the cancer journey.
If you’d like to support the event, consider donating on our event website. Every contribution helps Wellspring continue providing programs and services at no cost to participants.
Donate today, cheer on our riders, and help our Champions continue inspiring hope for others facing cancer.