WHY I RIDE

I am a new staff member at Pedal The Cause and I sought out my opportunity to work and ride for Pedal because I lost my mother, Barbara Jean Gallander, to cancer in 2006. My mother was an incredible athlete, and she would have loved cycling except for the fact that she was too busy playing tennis nearly every day! For a month or two, she had increasing back pain that she attributed to her tennis serve and when it didn't go away, we visited my BJC doctor to learn very quickly that she had Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer.

This type of cancer is rare, late presenting and aggressive, and despite the intensive treatment she received from her amazing doctors at Siteman, her cancer won and she passed away within six months, at the age of 67.

She lost the chance to see her grandchildren grow up, and so much more. I miss her intensely and feel cheated for her, and for all of us who loved and lost her. Cancer research is the only answer, and I hope you will support my effort, knowing that 100% of your donation will go directly to Pedal's CHECK to Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids, too.

I posted this appeal just 4 days ago (August 21) and the response has been so immediate and so generous, that our goal of $2,500 is nearly met. Alison, Susan, John and I thank every person for the important contribution you've made to this critical cause. Because the NEED is so large, we have decided to continue our efforts and increase our goal.

My mom pushed to win every point, in every match she played, and she would never quit when she was ahead, or behind.
In Barbara's name, and in the names of your loved ones who have faced cancer, thank you again for your support.
Pam xox