On Saturday, May 10, 2025, the 2nd Chance Trail Ride Society celebrated its 14th Annual Trail Ride – a day that brought together community members, donors, transplant recipients, riders, and volunteers for one meaningful purpose: raising awareness and funds in support of organ and tissue donation.
The morning began with excitement and anticipation as riders saddled up at the Lindbergh Staging Area, ready for the journey ahead. Horse trailers, wagons, and supporters filled the space with chatter and warmth as families and friends prepared for a ride rooted in tradition and meaning. With banners flying and boots in stirrups, the teams made their way down the scenic trail toward Heinsburg Community Hall, our final stop for the day.
This year, we were proud to take the ride back to its original route, echoing the early years of the event and reconnecting with the spirit of where it all began. Along the way, participants stopped at the Middle Creek Staging Area for a water break and to catch their breath – a thoughtful moment of rest and reflection during a day packed with purpose.
One of the most exciting parts of the event was our Poker Rally, which brought in an incredible amount of participation. Through a mobile app, riders and supporters – whether on the trail or cheering from home – were able to collect virtual poker hands to compete for over $5,000 in prizes.
The top prizes were showstoppers: a custom-designed 4 Nations bar fridge, a round-trip flight for two from Edmonton to Yellowknife complete with a hotel voucher, a tailgate prize pack valued at $1,000, Lammle’s Western Wear gift cards, and a grand $1,000 cash prize. There was also a 50/50 draw, raffle prizes, and door giveaways throughout the day. These exciting elements added fun and friendly competition, but at their core, they served to raise critical funds for families facing the transplant journey.
At its heart, the Trail Ride isn’t just an event – it’s a movement. Every year, the ride becomes a space where stories are shared, memories are honoured, and hope is renewed. Whether you’re a recipient celebrating another year of life, a living donor, a family member of someone lost too soon, or simply someone passionate about helping others, you belong here.
The power of this community lies in its people. We saw firsthand the emotional moments, like families walking the trail in honour of loved ones, or recipients proudly wearing shirts that say “Ask Me About My Transplant.” These are the stories that fuel our purpose.
This year’s ride would not have been possible without the tireless support of our volunteers. From pre-event planning to on-the-ground coordination, the people who gave their time – some for months in advance – made all the difference. We especially want to honour those who continue to volunteer in memory of loved ones, keeping the legacy of the ride alive.
To our sponsors, who provided everything from morning snacks and cookies, water bottles, to prize donations, and even those who showed up on the day with raffle items – thank you. Your contributions allow us to continue this mission year after year. The generous support from businesses and individuals across Alberta proves that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen.
The 14th Annual Trail Ride was more than just a success – it was a reminder of how powerful we can be when we unite around compassion, giving, and hope. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who joined us in person, donated, participated online, or simply shared the message of organ and tissue donation.
We are already hard at work preparing for next year’s ride and can’t wait to continue this journey with all of you.
Until then, thank you for riding with us. Thank you for believing in second chances.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The 2nd Chance Trail Ride Society Team
