$7.7 Million Raised for Brain Health Research at UHN through the 20th Tour de Bleu
Transformative research at University Health Network’s (UHN) Krembil Brain Institute received a major boost this year as the 20th annual Tour de Bleu cycling fundraiser rallied support for advances in brain health. On September 7, 52 cyclists crossed the finish line at Toronto General Hospital, marking two decades of the ride and raising $7.7 million. The event is the signature fundraiser of the Peter Gilgan Foundation, which selected University Health Network as its partner for this milestone year.
Funds raised will directly advance research in neurodegenerative diseases and neuroregenerative medicine at UHN’s Krembil Brain Institute, one of the world’s leading centres for neuroscience and a hub of discovery that is redefining care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, stroke, and other conditions that affect millions of Canadians.
“We are honoured that Peter Gilgan Foundation has chosen to partner with UHN Foundation on this year’s Tour de Bleu event to champion the pioneering work happening at our Krembil Brain Institute,” said Julie Quenneville, CEO of UHN Foundation. “Thanks to the vision of Peter Gilgan and the incredible generosity of this community of cyclists and donors, scientists and clinicians at Canada’s #1 hospital will be able to accelerate discoveries and bring hope to patients and families impacted by devastating disorders of the brain and spine. Together, we are not only changing the future of care in Canada, but also advancing knowledge that will improve lives around the world.”
“Thanks to the vision of Peter Gilgan and the incredible generosity of this community of cyclists and donors, scientists and clinicians will be able to accelerate discoveries and bring hope to patients and families impacted by devastating disorders of the brain and spine.”
Peter Gilgan Foundation’s partnership with UHN Foundation on this year’s ride reflects a commitment to investing in brain health, an area of urgent need as populations age and the prevalence of neurodegenerative disease continues to rise.
“The Peter Gilgan Foundation supports high-impact charitable initiatives that build a healthier future, and Tour de Bleu puts that mission in motion,” said Luke Gilgan, Board Member, Peter Gilgan Foundation. “For 20 years, this event has brought together an incredible community of riders and supporters whose generosity and commitment have enabled real, lasting impact. We’re especially proud that this year’s Tour supports the Krembil Brain Institute’s groundbreaking work in neuroregeneration—a field with the potential to transform lives. Tour de Bleu is proof that when people come together with purpose, amazing things can happen.”