On December 25, 2013 we gave our Dad the last Christmas gift we would ever have the chance to give him. With help from an angel in the Pelotonia office – my sister, my husband, my brother-in-law and I slipped out of his hospital room and walked back in together wearing Pelotonia jerseys.  We promised Dad that we would join the cause he cared so passionately about by forming a Peloton in his name to ensure that his fight against cancer would never end.  Through tears he gave us thumbs up and muttered, “best gift ever”.

Our Dad, Hugh E. Wall, III, was long-time supporter of the OSU-CCC but until the very end few knew that he was also a patient. He was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2005. When the cancer advanced to metastatic disease, doctors gave a grim prognosis. Dad refused to give up and that’s when he went to the James.  Dad proudly participated in trials led by one of the best at the James, Dr. J. Paul Monk.  The team at the James gave Dad unparalleled care during his years, and more importantly final weeks, of fighting the disease.

TEAMHEWIII rides in Pelotonia as a way to carry on Dad’s determination to give back to the place that gave him what no one else could – hope, courage and strength. Just like Dad, we would do anything in our power to help Pelotonia and the OSUCCC accomplish their one goal – END CANCER.

We are, by comparison, a very small Peloton.  Still, in our first two years supporting Pelotonia, our small-but-mighty ten-Rider team has generated more than $50K. Dad would be astounded and humbled with gratitude, and so are we.  We don’t have fancy jerseys and none of our Riders have the advantage of employer funded contributions.  We don’t host any events.  We fundraise the old-fashioned way.  We tell our story.  We explain why we ride.  And we are not shy about asking for support.  We do it year-round.  We keep a mailing list of those who have supported us in the past.  We send a postcard each spring asking for support again.  We sell donuts at garage sales and Mom’s famous caramel corn to co-workers.  The vast majority of our donations are under $100, and our funds come almost entirely from individuals.  We are bold about our commitment to Pelotonia – our closets are full of Pelotonia gear and we wear it proudly.  We shamelessly promote our fund raising efforts and #TEAMHEWIII on social media.  People know that Pelotonia is about much more than a bike ride or a fun party weekend to us.

Each year as we recruit new Riders we encounter the same hesitations.  Am I physically ready for the ride?  Can I raise enough to cover my Rider minimum?

The answer to both – every time – is yes.

First, we remind prospective Riders that there are no time chips, no numbered bibs.  Pelotonia isn’t a race designed for elite cyclists.  It is a ride, designed for dedicated cancer advocates.  Yes, you should train for your distance.  No, you do not need an expensive new bike or fancy cycling apparel.

Next, we tackle concerns about meeting the Rider fundraising minimum.  We have found that Riders in our Peloton who believe in the cause and who are willing to put themselves out there have no trouble hitting, and often exceeding their minimum.  When you place the focus on why you ride, you will quickly find you are surrounded by people who have battled or lost a love one to cancer. You will be surprised at how generously others give to help you reach your goal.

To anyone considering Pelotonia, consider this.  You have a chance that we wish we would have taken.  You have a chance to ride now, to raise funds that 100% directly benefit cancer research now, to bring us one day closer to ending cancer – now.  Now, before you or a loved one face a cancer battle.  Now, before you are riding in someone’s memory. We are stronger together. As Dad used to say, “Come on.  Let’s go!