Honouring Dee Dee Budgell-Short
This Cycle on Life, we honour and remember Dee Dee Budgell-Short, Co-Chair of Cycle on Life, whose inspiring spirit, generosity and deep compassion touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Dee Dee did not simply support Cycle on Life, she helped breathe life into it, and her presence made every rider, volunteer, donor and supporter feel welcomed, seen and valued.
Dee Dee’s connection to Riverview began in 2006, when her husband, Harry, experienced a stroke and came to Riverview Health Centre for care. A time that was expected to be brief became eleven additional years filled with memories, love, and togetherness. In 2017, Harry returned to Riverview’s Palliative Care community and passed peacefully, surrounded by family and compassionate care. Through this experience, Dee Dee’s gratitude transformed into dedication to supporting Riverview and the families who would follow a similar path.
Over the years, Dee Dee became a steadfast champion of Riverview’s mission. She joined the Riverview Health Centre Foundation Board in 2019 and served with warmth, kindness and steady leadership. She believed deeply in community and connection, and she worked to bring people together around purpose, not just fundraising. Her leadership helped Cycle on Life become a celebration of life, care and belonging.
Dee Dee’s passion took shape most visibly through the Budgell Bikers, a team named for her and the memory of Harry, which she led with enthusiasm and joy since 2018. The team connected riders from different walks of life, and one teammate shared that “there’s no denying Dee Dee’s passion”, that her invitation to ride brought others together, inspired friendships and encouraged people to take part in the event and in community life.
Under her stewardship, the Budgell Bikers raised funds to support meaningful enhancements at Riverview, including equipment that helps residents and families enjoy shared experiences. Dee Dee believed Cycle on Life was about more than kilometres pedalled or funds raised - it was about building connection, hope and care in a community that holds people at their most vulnerable.
Her husband, Ken Short, was always there on event day, lending his support with humility and a welcoming spirit that reflected the heart of Dee Dee’s leadership.
In the time leading up to her passing in August 2025, Dee Dee was still thoughtfully involved in planning the 2026 Cycle on Life. Her commitment, even during such a difficult time, reflected just how deeply she cared for this community and the people within it.
Dee Dee’s loss is felt across Riverview and the broader Cycle on Life family and yet her spirit remains in every rider who shows up with heart, in every act of giving, and in the joy we find in connection with one another.
In the months ahead, we will continue to honour Dee Dee’s legacy through Cycle on Life. Celebrating her kindness, her compassion, and the remarkable impact she made on the lives of so many. Because of Dee Dee, Riverview will continue to be a place where comfort, dignity and moments of joy are felt every single day.