His Mother released this statement yesterday:

"My son Pascal Lafontaine left us yesterday afternoon. He left peacefully surrounded by his family. He fought his cancer with exceptional and extraordinary courage. He continued to receive treatment despite the great fatigue and pain that would cause him. He didn’t want to leave this life that he cherished so much.

We, his family, would like to thank all the people who have given Pascal words of encouragement and support during his last five years of fighting. Let’s remember that due to his cancer, Pascal suffered an amputation of his leg in 2015. He would have been 28 years old on July 20th." - Pierrette Tetreault

Mr Lafontaine,

Allow me to take a few minutes of your time to sincerely congratulate you for being awarded the title of ‘Rider of the Year’ by the prestigious DIG Magazine earlier this year.

This recognition is the result of your determination and commitment towards this sport. Your story is one of inspiration and extraordinary resilience. You are a role model for young Quebec athletes. Your success shines a light on Boucherville. You make us proud!

I wish you the best of luck for the rest of your sporting career, and hope that you will reach the objectives you set yourself. I also wish you great courage in your fight against your illness. I sincerely hope that you will soon be on the mend.

Sincerely,

Nathalie Roy Minister of Culture and Education, Quebec.