Eighteen years ago I embarked upon a mission that would have a profound impact on my life. My brother Bill was battling cancer and there was nothing I could do other than pray. I’ve always liked cycling and heard about the American Cancer Society Bike A Thon Bridge to the Beach ride which raises money for research and services for those fighting cancer.

I never realized that this event did so much in the funding of cutting edge cancer research for early detection, drugs and treatment regimens to fight cancer. In fact, last year myself and others raised over $2.5 million dollars. This event is the largest American Cancer Society fund raiser.

Sadly, my brother lost his fight 11 years ago. The cancer he was fighting had a life expectancy of 12 years. Today through research and new treatments, life expectancy has increased it to 14 years. Not the ultimate goal BUT trending in the right direction.

Then there is my poster girl Tracy diagnosed with breast cancer in her twenties and is now, drum roll please, cancer free for over 9 years!  When Tracy was diagnosed she set her mind and body to beat this disease. She did and is now herself actively involved with helping others who are undergoing their own personal battle. It’s her way of giving back and showing gratitude to all who helped her win the fight. Another success story Shannon a young lady who completed her breast cancer treatment last year and is entering her second year of being cancer free! Here is another great success a good friend of mine Patty just celebrated her 7th year of being cancer free. 

This is such great news…. The words cancer free and ringing the bell!

 A truly happy story is Mackenzie a three year old diagnosed with Neuroblastoma who celebrates two years of being cancer free. Through early detection and some cutting edge treatment and surgery the doctors have eliminated all traces of cancer from her. She will need periodic MRI’s as follow-up but the doctors are very positive that she is okay. Can you say Hooray?

Sadly, we have some angels Donny, Elaine, Tracy, Barbara, Kenny, Joe, Mary, Brianna and Lisa as well as countless others. I ride in their memory so that they are not forgotten. 

I ride so that we have more success stories. My goal is that no one has to watch a loved one slip away on hospice care and that someday we live in a world where our grandchildren ask us, “What was cancer?”

 The big question, “Will you support me and my efforts to fight this disease?” Cancer doesn’t discriminate we are all potential targets. I know times are hard right now but what’s even harder is having cancer. 

As I have said many times you do the hard work… I just pedal.

Thank you in advance for your generous and continued support.                             

Tim