A GROUP of philanthropic police ditched their uniforms for lycra for a day, fundraising for families suffering pregnancy loss.
The quintet of police, predominantly detectives, decided to take part in the Alive Pharmacy Warehouse Ride for Isabel, for various personal reasons.
Spokesman Detective Senior Constable Ben Gadsby said a close friend had recently undergone late term pregnancy loss, so he knew the personal impact it could have.
He also said knowing it was in the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s stable of events gave the group confidence that it would be well-run.
“We just felt it was a worthy cause, we love a challenge. We’re not cyclists by any stretch but we loved it,” Det Gadsby said.
“We loved that we got a break at the 25 kilometre mark to stretch our legs and have a snack and then the third leg was a great challenge for all of us,” he said.
Most of the group works together in Cairns Police Criminal Investigation Branch and participation in the event ticked all the boxes.
“It’s social, it’s in the great outdoors, it’s great for your mental and physical health and it’s for a great cause.”
Asked whether the group planned to do next year’s ride and was considering next year’s QSuper Cardiac Challenge, Det Gasby answered “yes and yes” immediately.
The Alive Pharmacy Warehouse Ride for Isabel took place on August 27, and is aimed at shedding light on the emotional and physical struggles that accompany pregnancy loss.
Hosted by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, the ride was an enjoyable 53km or 100km around the cane fields of Gordonvale.
Participants fundraised to support families who undergo pregnancy loss.
Foundation CEO Gina Hogan (and wife of cycling police officer Matt Hogan) paid tribute to the group for stepping up to support families undergoing pregnancy loss.
"The commitment and empathy displayed by these officers are exactly the kind of community solidarity we hope to foster through our events. Their willingness to step outside of their comfort zones and pedal for a cause close to many hearts is not just inspiring but serves as a beautiful testament to the human spirit. We are grateful for their support and look forward to seeing them, and hopefully many others, joining us in next year's ride. Together, we can bring light to those experiencing the darkness of pregnancy loss, and foster a community that rallies around its members in times of need,” Mrs Hogan said.
More than $14, 000 was raised through the 2023 event.
