My Pelotonia is about hope, gratitude, and honoring the fight against cancer.

My motivation comes from my own life. I have had loved ones who fought cancer — some who thankfully won their battles and some who, heartbreakingly, could not fight any longer.

In 2021, my dad was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of nasal cancer. His cancer was inoperable, and he had to endure several rounds of radiation and chemotherapy. Watching him go through treatment was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Thanks to incredible doctors, treatments, and research that made those treatments possible, my dad has been cancer-free since 2022. I will always be grateful for that.

My aunt has also shown incredible strength in her own battle. In 2019, she was diagnosed with leukemia, a cancer of the blood. After months of treatment and a life-saving transplant in early 2020, she has been in remission and continues to monitor her health closely with regular checkups. Her courage and perseverance are a constant source of inspiration to me.

Through their experiences and those of close family friends who have faced cancer, I have come to truly understand the importance of cancer research. It’s not just about helping people survive. It’s about giving them the chance to truly live and thrive after cancer.

I am riding in Pelotonia because I want to give back. I want to help fund the research that saved my family and friends, and to help give others that same chance.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If you can find it in your heart to contribute to this great cause, I would be very grateful.

Much love,

Ross