Bio for Natasha Purba

Click Here for Natasha's Secure Donation Page to the Canadian Cancer Society Coming!

First Time at Ironman Canada!

IRONCOPS Biography – Natasha Purba

I have been a member of the New Westminster Police Service since November 2000.  In 2005 I had the opportunity to take part in the Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast (700km ride over 7 days), a pediatric cancer fundraiser.  As part of Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast, I was buddied up with a child that had been diagnosed with Cancer.  Lucas, my buddy, is an amazing and energetic child who was diagnosed with Leukemia when he was two years old.  Today, I still remain close to Lucas and his family and I am proud to say that he recently celebrated his 4^th Birthday.  Lucas is still fighting his battle, but his energy and continuous smile is a true reminder to me that “anything is possible.” 

I believe that it is important to challenge oneself, to venture outside ones comfort zone and choose a goal that seems close to impossible.  In 2005, the Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast was that goal.  It was one of the most physically challenging events I had ever taken part in.  I’m not a strong rider but I took on the challenge knowing that I could succeed if I put my mind and soul into it.  Every pedal stroke I took on my bike and every hill I thought I couldn’t ride up, I thought about Lucas and the obstacles that he endures everyday and I knew giving up wasn’t an option.

On December 8, 2006, a co-workers daughter was diagnosed with an inoperable, malignant germ cell tumor in the centre of her brain, her name is Paige. Paige is a beautiful and amazing 11-year-old young lady who is wise beyond her years.  Paige is in the early stages of treatment and her attitude is inspirational – she keeps everyone around her smiling and while undergoing chemotherapy treatment is raising awareness and funds to fight pediatric cancer.

Lucas and Paige show me everyday, that no matter what obstacles life brings, they can get through it with a smile.  So, it was important for me to show them that I can take on new challenges and overcome any obstacle, no matter what size. 

So in 2007, for my “buddies” Lucas and Paige, I partake in what I perceive to be the most difficult challenge of my life – Ironman Canada (3.8km swim, 180km bike & 42.2km run). As part of Cops for Cancer – Team Ironman, I hope to raise Cancer awareness and prove that nothing is impossible to those who believe in themselves.

Cancer can be beatable. We just need to fight it together through raising funds to support ongoing research. 

Take a moment to think about how Cancer has touched your life. 

Please make a donation to fund Cancer research by clicking on the link above; all donations are allocated to pediatric cancer research, Camp Goodtimes and other programs that benefit children with cancer in BC.

Together, we can make a difference.

Thank you for your support………….Natasha, Lucas & Paige