WHY I RIDE

I am proud to join Pedal the Cause in the fight against cancer. Pedal the Cause is more than the region's largest cancer fundraiser. It's a way of life, a celebration, a family and a movement fueled by the courage to end cancer.
I've participated in this ride for several years and certainly recognized the importance of funding an organization that touches so many lives.
Then it became much, much more personal when my wife Karen was diagnosed in August 2022 with Mantle Cell Lymphoma and the life we knew and loved changed and was put on pause.
Through some advice given by a trusted friend, we knew Siteman was the partner we needed to fight this disease and specifically Dr. Mehta-Shah and her team. She and the Siteman group provided the expertise to develop a plan of attack that included six rounds of chemo, both out-patient and admitted, as well as the extensive testing protocols needed to keep our thumb on this deadly cancer.
As part of that treatment plan was the option to participate in a couple of clinical trials designed to improve the chance of deep remission and change the standard of care for this type of lymphoma. After much study and soul searching, we decided to participate in these two trials.
I am proud, happy, relieved (I could go on and on with the various emotions) to say my wife is now in remission and we are back to enjoying life and doing all the things we have planned. But now with a much stronger appreciation of the time we are grateful to share together.
Which brings me back to the personal impact Pedal the Cause has had on us. This event directly funds the type of trials that helped the Siteman team get Karen's Mantle Cell under control and into remission for hopefully a very long time.
I am asking you to please support my efforts by donating to my fundraiser, and give with confidence knowing that 100% of your donation will fund lifesaving cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children's Hospital.
Two quotes that bring amazing perspective to me.
One, with gratitude, optimism becomes sustainable said by Michael J Fox.
Two, pardon my French but F**k Cancer! Said by anybody that's been through this battle.
Thanks so much for your support!