Ride for Life: Novartis employees embark on a 600-km bike ride for breast cancer

• Over $70,000 raised in fundraising efforts for long distance cycling event

DORVAL, QC, Sept. 23, 2017 /CNW/ - Novartis Canada employees set off today on their 13^th annual Ride for Life, a 600-kilometer cycling event that has raised over $1 million for the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation (QBCF) since 2005.

Fifty-four Novartis employees are taking part in the 3.5-day event, with 32 cycling the full 600-kilometers and others taking part on the first day in Toronto or the final stretch to Montreal. Ride for Life starts in Toronto with stops in Kingston and Ottawa, before arriving at Novartis' headquarters in Dorval, Quebec, on September 26^th.

"We are extremely proud of this incredible achievement and the dedication our colleagues have shown in initiating and volunteering to raise funds for breast cancer research," said Winselow Tucker, General Manager, Oncology Business Unit at Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. "The Ride for Life is no easy feat and the efforts of our riders reflect Novartis' long-term commitment to Canadians living with breast cancer."

For Ride for Life president and Novartis employee, Marie-Andree Cyr, and many of her colleagues, this ride is especially meaningful given their personal connections to breast and other forms of cancer.

"Like many families, mine has been touched by cancer. My grandmother passed away from cancer in February. I'm riding in support of patients, caregivers, and family members who have been affected by this disease."

Everyone participating in Ride for Life is responsible for raising $2,500, with a team goal of $75,000. This year, Novartis has already raised $72,000 and expects to meet their fundraising goal by the time the riders cross the finish line.

"We're always impressed by the commitment of Novartis employees who complete this challenging race and this year is no exception. On behalf of all the men and women affected, we are extremely grateful," said Nathalie Tremblay, CEO, Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation. "This generous contribution will play a significant role in helping the QBCF carry out our work in supporting research for women affected by breast cancer."

About Ride for Life
Ride for Life^TM is an initiative launched in 2005 by Novartis employees wanting to help raise awareness and funds to the breast cancer community. The initiative entails a 600-kilometer, 3.5-day bike ride starting from Toronto, Ontario, making stops in Kingston and Ottawa, ending at Novartis Canada headquarters in Dorval, Quebec. Since 2005, Novartis has raised over $1 million dollars for the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, making them one of the largest fundraising teams in Quebec. To contribute to this cause or to learn more, please visit www.rubanrose.org/fundraising/activities/2017-ride-for-life.

About Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., a leader in the healthcare field, is committed to the discovery, development and marketing of innovative products to improve the well-being of all Canadians. In 2016, the company invested $48.8 million in research and development in Canada. Located in Dorval, Quebec, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. employs approximately 750 people in Canada and is an affiliate of Novartis AG, which provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. For further information, please consult www.novartis.ca.

SOURCE Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada