I'm riding with Wheels of Justice to fundraise for the Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Our fundraised money goes directly to primary pediatric oncologic research as well as mental health and wellness care for families and patients dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or blood disorders. As of 2023, Wheels has fundraised over $6.25 million and this year our goal is $750,000.
I ride to give hope to Children’s Hospital Colorado patients and their families. This cause has very personal meaning to our family. In 2022, when our daughter Nora was just 1.5 years old, we noticed a small bump on her inner ankle. Soon after, diagnostic imaging resulted in what felt like an the unthinkable diagnosis of cancer - specifically, a soft tissue tumor (spindle cell neoplasm). As we grasped for understanding and navigated a frightening new uncertainty, the team at Children's stood shoulder to shoulder with us. They cared for Nora as if she was their own child. Two surgeries, three sedations, one cast, lots of pain medication, and many physical therapy sessions later, our girl is in remission and we're grateful beyond words for the world class care that she received from the pediatric oncology team at Children's. Nora is coming up on year 2 of her 5 year oncology follow up and she's never lost her wild, joyful, sweet energy.
Every day children receive new cancer diagnoses. Thanks to advents in science and medical technology, survival rates are increasing markedly over time. Still, there's more work to be done to increase survival rates for all pediatric cancers - research is the key.
Yes, cancer is scary and heartbreaking. But there is reason for hope! And these kids are not alone in their battle as long as we continue to support new research and the loving practitioners that deliver lifesaving treatments.
Please help us give kids the best chance at a healthy future by donating this year to the Courage Classic!
