This will be my second time riding in the Great Cycle Challenge. It’s not until September, but I’m starting early.

Back in 2017, I started cycling. In 2018, I completed my first Great Cycle Challenge — riding 200 miles, raising $500, and earning my first jersey. At the time, I had no idea just how close to home childhood cancer would soon hit.

In 2019, we welcomed a healthy baby boy named Abram into our family. Then, in January 2024, at just 4 years old, Abram was diagnosed with High-Risk B-Cell Leukemia.

After a long and difficult journey, Abram completed his final dose of chemotherapy on May 6, 2026.

Today, he is healthy, thriving, and full of life.

That outcome is possible in part because of research, funding, and newer treatments developed specifically for childhood leukemia. Research saves lives. It saved our son’s.

So why am I riding?

Because cancer remains the #1 disease-related killer of children in the United States. Every week, 38 children lose their lives to cancer.

And now… this fight is personal.

My challenge may be tough, but it’s nothing compared to what kids like Abram and their families endure every single day while battling these horrible diseases.

Kids should be living life — not fighting for it.

This year, my goal is to ride 200 miles during the month of September and raise $500. I’m asking friends and family to consider donating just 10¢ per mile — only $20 total.

But you know me… why stop there?

If we reach $2,500 raised, I’ll DOUBLE my mileage goal and ride 400 miles instead! Plus, I’ll earn a pretty rad limited-edition jersey in the process. 😎

Every dollar raised supports Children’s Cancer Research Fund and helps fund better treatments, safer therapies, and hopefully one day, a cure for childhood cancer.

Thank you so much for your support, encouragement, prayers, and donations. It truly means the world to our family.

— Phil