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Dennis Couperthwaite
submitted by Harry Brown

Hi Jeff, I haven't met you but I'm Melissa's Dad and very much admire your
dedication to this ride and the cancer patients it will serve.

A good friend of mine, Dennis Couperthwaite has been in treatment now for
over two years for a tumour situated just behind the optic nerve. The
growth has spread somewhat recently although Dennis has fought his disease mightily with every ounce of strength and pursued every possible treatment.

As an infant Dennis had cancer resulting in the loss of one eye before his
first birthday. He grew up compensating for his less than 20/20 vision and
experienced a fairly normal childhood.

A teacher by profession Dennis was vice principal of The Island School, on
Ward Island in Toronto Harbour when this latest challenge erupted. Now in
his mid forties he is showing the signs of prolonged treatment and the
ravishes of the disease. His spirit though very much tested remains
positive. When I see him he talks about a cure and eventually being
released from medication.

For a number of summers he spent two weeks each year at a cancer camp for
kids and often spoke of how much he enjoyed the children and what a
wonderful opportunity the camp provided for the kids.