Frank Ritcey is more than just a familiar face in British Columbia—he’s a beloved figure known for his deep connection to nature and wildlife. Described as a “gem” by many close to him and “amazing” by his grandson JadeBear, Ritcey is now channeling that lifelong passion into a cause close to his heart: cancer research.
The 68-year-old former provincial Bear Aware coordinator, CBC host, naturalist, videographer, adventure guide, musician, and author has spent decades exploring and educating others about B.C.’s wild places—especially Wells Gray Park and the surrounding Interior. Raised among the rivers, mountains, and forests of Wells Gray on the traditional lands of the Simpcw and Tsq’escen’ peoples, Ritcey grew up immersed in wildlife. His father, Ralph Ritcey, was a respected wildlife biologist, and his mother Clara, an avid hiker and author, instilled in him a love for the outdoors.
In 2024, Ritcey began facing a new and unexpected journey: a personal battle with metastatic prostate cancer. But rather than retreating from the world, Ritcey has embraced what he calls his most healing therapy—hiking—and launched a new initiative called Hike for the Cure to raise funds for cancer research.
In a recent interview with Black Press, Ritcey opened up about the emotional and mental challenges men face after a prostate cancer diagnosis.
“Prostate cancer is really tough for men,” he explained. “We’re taught to be strong and not ask for help—especially when it comes to mental health. But I took the step to see a counselor early on, and it’s been life-changing.”
That step was key in the birth of Hike for the Cure. As Ritcey described it, the campaign isn’t only about raising money for medical research—it’s also about promoting mental health for anyone experiencing life-altering challenges.
“Nature grounds you,” Ritcey said. “When you’re surrounded by trees, water, and wildlife, everything is as it should be. You don’t always get that feeling in an urban setting. Being out in nature helped me reconnect to myself during the toughest moments.”
He candidly shared how cancer treatments took a toll on him, both physically and emotionally. He experienced depression, but thanks to a “prescription” from his counselor—to get outside and hike every day—his spirit began to lift.
He laughed as he recalled telling his son Kyle about the hiking prescription. “Kyle said, ‘Sounds like you’re making that one up, Dad, since you’re always looking for an excuse to go hiking!’”
With the full support of his family—his wife Raven, son Kyle, grandson JadeBear, daughter River, his siblings, and his mother Clara—Ritcey is moving forward with determination.
“Not all prostate cancer is incurable,” he said. “I intend to fight and be here when a cure is found.”
He also emphasized the importance of seeking help, urging others not to be afraid to speak to mental health professionals.
“Years ago, mental health carried such a stigma. But holding things in isn’t good for anyone. It’s okay to get help, and for me, that’s been essential to healing.”
Ritcey believes strongly in the power of nature to heal and re-center. Being in the wilderness reminds him that humans are not separate from the earth—we’re a part of it. Hiking and connecting with the natural world, he says, brings peace and perspective.
As part of the Hike for the Cure initiative, Wells Gray Adventures (WGA)—a long-time guiding company with ties to Ritcey’s family—has joined as a co-sponsor. WGA is donating proceeds from two fully booked fundraising trips into their Trophy Mountain Chalets in Wells Gray Park.
Tay Briggs, owner of WGA, shared the company’s deep connection with the Ritcey family.
“Frank’s family has a long history in Fight Meadow and Table Mountain,” she said. “When we started WGA nearly 40 years ago, we re-established a trail once used by Frank’s grandfather—one of the original guides in Wells Gray. Frank has guided many trips for us over the years and always brings a unique, funny, and inspirational energy to the experience.”
Briggs said WGA is proud to support Frank’s vision.
“We’re honored to partner with Frank on this fundraiser. It’s an important cause, and it’s going to be a great experience for everyone involved. Good fun for a good cause—it’s a win-win.”
For Ritcey, this campaign is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a personal mission to bring hope to others facing cancer and to encourage healing through connection with nature and with each other.
“I just want people to know they’re not alone,” Ritcey said. “Whether it’s cancer or any major life challenge, help is out there. And sometimes, that help can begin with a walk in the woods.”
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