Members of 2 Wing in Action to Support Children with Cancer

March 10, 2025 - Defence Stories - Royal Canadian Air Force

Captain Nabil Allou - Public Affairs Officer, 2 Wing

From February 14 to 15, four members of 2 Wing channeled their physical energy to take on the "Défi des Sommets", a 24-hour alpine ski touring relay event at Mont-Édouard. Their goal was to support children with cancer and their families.

The participants, who called themselves the "Disciples of Sisyphus"—a nod to the Greek mythological figure condemned to repeatedly push a boulder uphill only for it to roll back down—took on this challenge with courage and determination. The team included Major Jean-François Monetta, Captain Luc Robichaud, and Warrant Officer Mathieu Blanchette (all from 2 Air Expeditionary Training Squadron), as well as Captain Félix Vincent from 2 Operational Support Squadron. They embraced this challenge in support of the Leucan Foundation.

The "Défi des Sommets" aimed to raise $12,000. Each team of four participants was encouraged to rally their networks to collect a minimum of $1,200 ($300 per member). Teams could share a link, particularly on social media, allowing the public to contribute directly to this worthy cause.

The event brought together a wide range of participants: amateur athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and regional ambassadors. This community-driven effort demonstrated the power of collective action, proving that remarkable results can be achieved when people come together.

“Participating in this challenge is much more than just a physical test. It’s an opportunity to put our efforts toward a cause that deeply touches our hearts. Having had a cousin who faced leukemia as a child and knowing the challenges he had to overcome, this is my way of giving back and helping others,” emphasized team member Captain Robichaud.

The breathtaking landscapes of Mont-Édouard, located in Anse-Saint-Jean in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, served as the backdrop for this event. The "Disciples of Sisyphus" combined their passion for the mountains and the outdoors with a profound act of solidarity, turning this human and athletic adventure into meaningful support for children with cancer and their families.