Riding toward a world without cancer

  • By Angela Workman
  • July 30, 2012
  • 333
                        
Summary: From July26-29, the Pan Ohio Hope Ride inspired bike riders and spectators across the state. The tour began in Cleveland and concluded in Cincinnati. Approximately 501 riders raised $739,048 for treatment, cures and the Ohio Hope Lodge, which offers a free stay for guests and caregivers who are receiving treatment far from home. As long as cancer exists, there will be efforts to prevent, treat and cure it. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has waged a war against this disease, and from July 26-29, the tireless battle waged on. This time, however, cyclists were on the front line—pedaling across Ohio in smoldering temperatures. Anchored with a solid mission, 501 riders traveled from Cleveland to Cincinnati, which totaled 328 miles, for Pan Ohio Hope Ride. There was more driving these participants than the adrenaline rush or the desire to keep physically fit. A memory of a lost loved one, or the thought of a friend battling the disease, kept these riders moving forward—not much different than cancer survivors themselves. Standing still isn’t an option. The ride raised approximately $739,048 for treatment, research and the Ohio Hope Lodge program. There are two locations in Ohio that provide free lodging for patients and their families who must travel for treatment. The comfortable space allows families to focus on getting better, not the expenses. According to Audrey Workman, income development representative for the ACS, 1,125 patients and 1,469 caregivers have been served at the lodges in Cincinnati and Cleveland. The average stay is approximately 3-8 weeks, and this program has saved these guests more than $2.3 million. For more information, visit www.cancer.org/Treatment/SupportProgramsServices/HopeLodge/. On the first day, the bikers traveled from Cleveland to The College of Wooster’s Lowry Center, where they were greeted with food, drinks, entertainment and overnight accommodations. The next morning, riders traveled through Holmes County to Otterbein College. Lastly, they traveled to Wittenberg University and then left for Cincinnati. Andy Jones, member of team MCPC, was the second rider to arrive at the Lowry Center. For Jones, the ride was personal. Twelve years ago, his mother died of a brain tumor. His team raised approximately $32,000 for the American Cancer Society—the ultimate form of fighting back. “The route’s good. Everybody seemed in good spirits when we left Cleveland. I think this is the biggest turnout ever,” Jones said. Jones also noted the camaraderie and conversation as they left Case Western Reserve. Accompanied by a police escort, the ride through Cleveland was relatively smooth. While the heat, humidity and wind slowed the riders, it certainly didn’t stop them. “You think you can’t peddle another mile…and they’re cheering and (saying) ‘thank you so much,’” said Lisa Chipka. “The support’s amazing.” She and her husband, Bob Chipka, decided to do the race after seeing the riders roll through town four years ago. For the past three years, the couple has been participating. Lisa Chipka explained that her father-in-law had prostate cancer, bringing the cause closer to home for the duo. They formed a three-person team, titled, Inside Your Neighborhood. David Graham, board member on the east central division of the ACS, explained that the Pan Ohio Hope Ride began six years ago with about 50 riders. The explosion of participation may be in response to a growing phenomenon of physical fundraisers. According to Trish Archer, volunteer lead for the ride, the bike tour includes another market of participants. “A lot of people are riding now. It’s something everybody can do,” Archer said.


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