Just before undergoing surgery for prostate cancer, Dean Setoguchi had one request for his surgeon.
“I said to him, ‘If you can give me a chance at a long, healthy life, I will do whatever I can to help support a cure for cancer.'”
Today, the Keyera President and CEO is cancer-free, and he’s making good on that promise.
Through Keyera’s support of the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer and a team of 128 employees riding alongside him, Dean is helping fund life-saving cancer research and care for Albertans while inspiring others to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Cancer has touched many people in Dean’s life. Family members and friends have faced diagnoses, and last year, he faced one of his own. Despite living an active lifestyle and prioritizing his health, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“When it happens to you, first of all, you want to survive, but you also think about what you can do to make a difference for everybody else.”
That mindset shaped how he approached life after treatment and how he thought about the role he could play as a leader.
“I’m lucky that I’m in a position that has some influence. So how do I leverage that influence to support other Albertans on their journey?”
Earlier this year, Keyera announced their participation as a Northern Lights sponsor. The response from employees was immediate. In its first year, the company has rallied 128 riders and raised more than $600,000 (and counting) in support of cancer research and care.
“When we announced that we were going to be a major sponsor, the rally behind that was unbelievable. Everybody’s going all in.”
For Dean, one of the most rewarding parts has been watching colleagues challenge themselves and prioritize their health and wellbeing while working toward a common goal.
Investing in Cancer Care Close to Home
With employees and operations across the province, supporting cancer care in Alberta was a natural fit.
“It’s important for us to make sure that we’re funding cancer care in Alberta. I think it’s fantastic that we can get the best care in the world right here at home.”
But the impact goes beyond dollars raised.
For Dean, the Tour demonstrates what’s possible when people come together around a shared purpose.
“I think about the difference we can make collectively as a team versus any one of us individually. It’s really powerful to see.”
That collective spirit has become a source of pride across the company and a reminder that progress is built together.
The Power of Support
Throughout his cancer journey, Dean says the people around him made all the difference.
“There are many challenging times in life, and obviously a cancer diagnosis is one of them. The support that you have is such a big part of the healing process.”
This year, many of those same people — friends, family and colleagues — will join him on the road.
“To be joining me, joining us on this ride, it’s really special. That support goes a long way.”
Support Team Keyera as they take on the 2026 Tour this July.
