Motorcyclists Ride To Raise Money For Breast Cancer Awareness

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A group of motorcycle riders are trying to accomplish a goal: To help people battling breast cancer.

Every year, the bikers rev their engines for the Lynnda Laubach Breast Cancer Awareness Ride. They say the more donations they get, the more breast cancer patients they can help.

"I think everyone of use knows someone who has gone through the cancer experience and it can be devastating to them," said Sherrie Thole, ride organizer.

The bikers know that from personal experience. Their friend, Lynnda Laubach, was diagnosed with the disease and lived, but only after undergoing rigorous and expensive treatments. Now they want to help women like her pay for basic living needs, so they can focus on healing.

"They might get in a bind with their mortgage, they might get in a bind with other bills," said Thole.

Janelle Hickerson has never met any of the bikers, but has felt their generosity. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer 16 years ago and had a mastectomy, but the cancer came back.

"They found a tumor and it was about this long on my femur and it had compromised 60 percent of the bone," said Hickerson.

Hickerson said the medical expenses overwhelmed the family's tight budget.

"People end up in a situation where they have to mortgage a house or sell a car and we're not in a position, we don't have anything of value that people would want," she said.

But last year, a little relief came. Through money raised from the Lynnda Laubach Breast Cancer Ride, Janelle received a $1,000 grant. Her husband said every little bit helps.

"It came at a very timely fashion," said Dave Hickerson. "In our particular case, it kept the gas on."

Hickerson's cancer battle may not be over, but her spirits have been lifted.

"I've come to see how much people care for me and that was just amazing," she said.

That's an accomplishment this group of bikers is on a mission to repeat.

"We can use the bike ride, which we enjoy and use it for good in the community," said Thole.

The next Lynnda Laubach Ride is Saturday, Aug. 23.

There is no paid staff, so every dollar raised goes directly to patients. You can help this group of motorcycle riders accomplish their goal. Here's how to donate.