Kickin’ Cancer in the Can

Lately, 11-year-old Eleanor Richardson of Jefferson Township has been asking her parents for odd jobs to do around the house. Like many kids her age, it’s her only option for earning extra cash. But unlike many of her peers, Eleanor isn’t saving her money for a new computer game or an iPod. Instead, she’s donating everything she earns to her

school’s service project, a 10-week fundraising campaign to support research at Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center—James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute.

Eleanor’s father, Craig Richardson, and a group of parents spearheaded the fundraiser at Blacklick Elementary School, an effort that took on added meaning when one of the teachers had to take an extensive leave this past fall to battle cancer. Fortunately, Eleanor and her siblings (Cyrus, 8, and Claire, 7) aren’t the only enthusiastic fundraisers at the school. Thanks to the efforts of many students and their parents, they’ve already raised more than $3,000 and are well on the way to their goal of $4,000.

Craig, who will ride in his fourth Pelotonia this year, created the Blacklick Elementary Pride Pedalers using a familiar model. Each classroom teacher is a virtual rider, and every classroom is equipped with a brightly-colored metallic paint can that says: Let’s kick cancer in the can! Students and parents can donate by putting money in the can, or they can donate online via the Pelotonia Web site. Best of all, the fundraiser has prompted more than just a few adults to sign up as Pelotonia riders.

To celebrate their achievements, the Pride Pedalers have scheduled a community-wide Bike-a-thon and Bike Rodeo to be held on June 2, 2012. The event will take place on a one-mile, closed-loop bike course on the school grounds. Refreshments will be served, and everyone in the community is invited.

If you’d like more information about Blacklick Elementary’s Pride Pedalers or the June 2^nd Bike-a-thon, email Craig at craigohmaple@yahoo.com.