Riding for Research

I have grown up with the love of biking, whether in my driveway with my nephew or biking across the country. This summer I am embarking on one of my greatest adventures yet. I will be leaving on June 11th from my hometown in Clarkston, Washington and making my way north through British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon Territory, with a final destination of Prudhoe Bay, Alaska - the northernmost point of North America accessible by road. This 2,900+ mile cycling adventure is expected to take just over a month, as we plan to finish mid July.

Like many, cancer has hit close to home for me. Both of my grandmothers and my grandfather have suffered from varying types of brain, breast, and prostate cancer with my grandmother’s being terminal. My best friend's father, who is like family to me, was also diagnosed with a rare blood cancer and it has been heartbreaking watching him go through the never ending struggle. He wasn’t expected to make it more than a year. However, due to advancements in research and experimental medication, he has made an extraordinary recovery.

Unlike my grandmother’s struggle with cancer that came later in life, children with cancer aren’t always afforded the opportunity to experience a healthy, full life. Many are required to spend their childhood in hospitals and going to chemotherapy, instead of enjoying normal childhood with their friends and family. Cancer research has made great advancements over the years, but too often, rare childhood cancers are overlooked.

As a young college student, I don’t have a lot of extra money to donate but I do have my health and ability. That's why this summer my mission is to bring awareness to the need for childhood cancer research by raising more than $10,000 for the Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute.

I greatly appreciate your support. Please follow me on my journey via Facebook and Instagram under the handle, "Riding for Research."

-Jolee Nicholas