Alternative Highs: Empowering Lives Through Challenges, Unity, and Purpose

Join our journey to redefine ability and promote healthy living through physical challenges that inspire growth, raise awareness, and support life-changing causes. Discover our mission, meet our champion Dustin Gawne, and help us achieve our inaugural goal: $1 million for Sick Kids’ Hospital during the Cycling for Sickle Cell ride in September 2025.

Dustin Gawne: From Adversity to Inspiration

Dustin Gawne’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. After overcoming the challenges of spinal cord and brain injuries, as well as battling addiction, Dustin has emerged as a true champion of ability and perseverance. His dedication to physical and mental growth has made him the first able-athlete for Alternative Highs. Through his remarkable story, Dustin inspires others to confront their obstacles and discover the limitless potential within themselves. As he prepares for the Cycling for Sickle Cell ride from Windsor to Toronto, Dustin embodies the spirit of empowerment, determination, and purpose that defines Alternative Highs.

The story and details of this movement

Empowering Your Journey

A Legacy of Vision and Mentorship

Alternative Highs began as a dream 35 years ago, inspired by the mentorship of Dr. Tom McFarlane at the University of Western Ontario. A small group of university friends envisioned promoting healthy life choices through physical challenges, encouraging people to find their natural “highs” without drugs or alcohol. Though the dream lay dormant for years, it was reignited by a shared commitment to transform lives and make a lasting impact.

Championing Ability Through Challenges

At the heart of Alternative Highs is Dustin Gawne, a remarkable individual who overcame addiction and physical adversity to become our first able-athlete. Through mental toughness training and years of dedication, Dustin emerged as a beacon of resilience and hope. His story embodies the core of our mission: empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and discover their true potential.

From Vision to Action—A Cause with Purpose

Alternative Highs has evolved into a vibrant not-for-profit organization, supporting large-scale events that encourage physical activity as a pathway to personal growth and societal change. Each event is designed to raise awareness and funds for meaningful causes, inspiring participants to confront challenges while giving back to the community.

Cycling for Sickle Cell—Our First Major Initiative

In September 2025, Alternative Highs will launch its inaugural public event: Cycling for Sickle Cell. This ambitious ride will see Dustin Gawne cycling from Windsor to Toronto to raise $1 million for Sick Kids’ Hospital during its 150th anniversary celebration. The event will shine a spotlight on Sickle Cell awareness while supporting groundbreaking research and patient care.

John doe

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam.

John doe

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam.

John doe

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam.