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Le Tour de Rein Éric Chandonnet Surpasses Its Goal for Its 15th Edition

Region: 
Quebec
Date: 

Exceptional Community Support Raises More Than $60,000 for Kidney Health

The 15th edition of the Le Tour de rein Éric Chandonnet, held on September 26 at Bernard-Landry Park in Laval, concluded on an exceptional note. Thanks to the dedication of cyclists, donors, volunteers, and partners, the event raised more than $60,000, significantly surpassing its fundraising goal of $50,000.

Martin Alarie and a group of people holding a check.
Photographer: Marie Alarie

Once again, this year, participants took on the challenge of a 75 km ride in a welcoming and festive atmosphere. To mark its 15th anniversary, the Tour also introduced a virtual participation option for the first time, allowing supporters to take part from anywhere using the bicycle of their choice.

Created in 2012 by Éric Chandonnet, who was then living with severe kidney failure, Le Tour de rein was born from his desire to raise awareness about kidney disease and organ donation while supporting The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Quebec Division. Diagnosed in 2010, the police officer underwent three years of peritoneal dialysis and, despite declining health, continued to enjoy family life, travel, and cycling whenever possible. In 2013, a living kidney donation from his friend Frédéric Côté restored his health through a kidney transplant.

More than ten years later, Eric continues to ride for the cause, and a coincidence on the calendar added a very personal touch to the event’s 15th edition: this year’s Kidney Tour took place on his birthday.

“Seeing so many people riding with us after 15 years is deeply moving. Exceeding our goal this year demonstrates just how strongly the community continues to show up for people affected by kidney disease,” said Eric Chandonnet.

Martin Alarie speaking in a microphone.
Photographer: Marie Alarie

With this year’s fundraising results, the Tour has now contributed more than $385,000 to the Foundation since its creation. These funds help raise awareness about the importance of organ donation, support programs and services for people affected by kidney disease, and advance research initiatives and patient advocacy efforts.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this 15th edition, and especially to Éric Chandonnet, his wife Nadine, his sons Cédric and Samuel, his family, his friends, the Service de police de Laval, and the organizing committee for their time, commitment, and unwavering support.