Igniting Hope in the Mountains: The Riddle Centre Research Retreat

May 2025

In the shadow of Mount Baldy, our dedicated team had the privilege of stepping away from our desks and into the breathtaking beauty of Kananaskis for a two-day scientific retreat. It was an invaluable opportunity to immerse ourselves in the very heart of our mission: supporting groundbreaking research and advocating for children bravely battling cancer. And we returned with more than just fresh mountain air in our lungs – we came back invigorated with hope and a renewed sense of purpose.

The retreat was a powerful convergence of brilliant minds and compassionate hearts. We were incredibly fortunate to hear from guest speakers from leading institutions like Calgary’s Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, BC Children's Hospital, and Seattle Children's Hospital, who shared their latest discoveries and insights into the evolving landscape of childhood cancer treatments. From innovative therapies to advancements in immunotherapy, the presentations painted a vivid picture of the relentless progress being made in the field.

But it wasn't just about the science. A truly impactful part of the retreat was hearing directly from patients and their family members. Their courage, resilience, and candid sharing of their journeys offered a profound and necessary patient perspective. These personal stories brought the research to life, reminding us precisely why every dollar raised and every hour invested in this fight truly matters. They highlighted the critical issues facing cancer patients and their families, from the immediate challenges of treatment to the long-term impacts on their lives.

The air buzzed with excitement as new research avenues were explored and collaborative ideas sparked. We witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of researchers as they pushed the boundaries of what's possible. Numerous great discoveries were highlighted, and the potential for these breakthroughs to transform lives was truly inspiring.

As a charity, our role is to connect the generosity of our donors with the most promising research and support the most impactful initiatives. This retreat provided our staff with an unparalleled understanding of where the greatest needs and opportunities lie. We walked away with plenty of new ideas for where the funds we raise are most needed to advance research, ensuring that every contribution has the maximum impact.

The stunning backdrop of the Kananaskis mountains served as a powerful metaphor for the journey ahead – a climb that requires dedication, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to reach new heights. We are more confident than ever that by investing in cutting-edge research and supporting the holistic needs of young patients, we can continue to make significant strides towards a future where every child can live a life free from cancer.

Thank you to all the brilliant minds, courageous patients, and dedicated staff who made this retreat such a profound experience. Together, we are building a brighter tomorrow for children with cancer.

To see the pictures for this retreat – click here