Inspired by his own and his family’s cancer experiences, Stephen Murphy gives fellow Calgarians on cancer journeys an emotional and literal lift.
By Fabian Mayer
When it comes to making things better for people living with cancer in Alberta, Stephen Murphy is on a roll. Whether it’s on two wheels or four, the 67-year-old cancer survivor has plenty of reason to stand up against the disease.
Even before his own diagnosis, cancer had profoundly affected Murphy’s family. His father, two of his brothers and his sister have all faced a diagnosis. Given the impact of the disease on his family, Murphy wanted to find a way to contribute to the cause. He had heard about the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer (Tour) but was a little apprehensive. He called the Tour office with his questions.
“I said, ‘How the hell am I going to ride 200 kilometres?’” Murphy recalls. “I’d hang up, then phone back 10 minutes later and say, ‘Well, how am I going to raise $2,500?’ It took four phone calls, and [the Tour staff member] finally said, ‘Steve, just sign up.’” So, in 2016, he did.
In 2019, Murphy began his own cancer journey after he spotted some blood in his urine and went to the doctor. A cystoscopy revealed cancer in his bladder. Murphy underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumour, and the cancer has not returned. Now riding for himself as well as his family, Murphy will hit the road for his 10th Tour this year.
Murphy’s latest commitment to helping fellow individuals facing cancer required less encouragement. Watching TV one day, he saw an ad for Wheels of Hope and signed up on the spot. The volunteer driving program provides rides for people facing cancer who are receiving treatment or attending follow-up appointments. Murphy started with the program in March 2024 and gives rides to and from Calgary-area hospitals every Monday.
“I know how [hard] it can be getting to and from appointments,” he says. “I wanted to help make it better for people getting into the vehicle, to help them feel a little more comfortable.”
Murphy says he has driven all kinds of patients, some without cars of their own and others unable to drive after exhausting treatments. He has found volunteering to drive extremely rewarding and often shares his own cancer journey with passengers.
“Once they get in the car and I open up about my own journey, it makes them at ease,” he says. “Then they can open up, and they feel like someone understands.”
Murphy’s commitment to both the Tour and volunteer driving is steadfast. He has vowed to continue participating in the Tour until he’s physically unable.
“It’s going to take a whole army to move us all forward,” says Murphy. “If we can make even the simplest changes, it’s going to make things better.”
