HOPE RIDES WITH US

We are honored and excited to be participating in the 12th Annual Closer to Free Ride on Saturday, September 9, 2023. Our team "The Bike Guy Boosters" is named for Paul Egan, aka The Bike Guy.

In early June of 2021, Paul was diagnosed with MDS, Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a blood cancer.  This came as a shock to us because Paul was a healthy, vibrant person.  Paul's wife Liz created The Bike Guy Boosters Team in 2021 as a way for all of us to feel empowered, to do something, to make a difference. When someone you love is dealing with cancer, it feels like there is nothing you can do.  By riding in Closer to Free, we are making a difference because EVERY dollar raised goes to cancer research to lead towards a cure.  

Many of you have followed Paul's journey on https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/paulegan/journal. You know that Paul was inpatient 92 days as he struggled to overcome life threatening obstacles to receiving the Bone Marrow Transplant that could potentially save his life. Smilow Cancer Hospital is an amazing place. The doctors, the nurses and the phenomenal staff worked hard to care for Paul and on Friday, January 21, 2022, Paul received the miracle of life that is a Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplant. Paul and his wife Liz received more time to love each other, their families, and their community.  They got to continue their service and their adventures together.  Sadly, On May 5, 2023 after a return to Smilow, Paul passed away surrounded by the excellent care of staff.

It is fitting that we support Paul by biking.  In his role as The Bike Guy, Paul has reclaimed, repaired, and given away 1,700 bicycles to children and adults in all corners of our community.  Paul has helped so many people. Now we are here to raise funds 2023 Closer to Free Ride for Smilow Cancer Hospital.

Please donate!  Donate to the entire The Bike Guy Boosters Team or through any Individual Team Member on our Roster.  One hundred percent,100%, of every donation goes to Smilow Cancer Hospital.  Thank you in advance for helping us bring the world Closer to Free of cancer and thank you for your very generous donation! Thank you so much!

HOPE RIDES WITH US!