I joined my first Less Cancer Ride in 2018, when it was a two-day adventure known as Split-the-Mitt. That ride drove me and many other committed participants to adapt the ride to be more inclusive, pulling in more Less Cancer advocates.
Seven years later, we’re still riding, although the event has undergone many changes since its inaugural edition. Instead of a two-day ride, there are dozens of rides featuring local groups across the country. In Traverse City, we’ve gone from two to three groups doing distances up to 100 miles to a single, no-drop group riding a metric century.
The people have changed, too. It’s a reflection of changing demands and interests; other responsibilities are pulling some of us away from cycling and, in turn, from the ride. But the core group is still there, and while the faces may have changed a bit, the mission is more important than ever.
Right now, public health has been reduced from a scientific and social responsibility to a way to score political points. Well-established facts are suddenly up for debate, usually with little evidence or coherent argument; a lie told often enough, and loud enough, somehow earns legitimacy in public debate.
That’s not what Less Cancer is about. The board, the organization’s many partners, donors, and followers know healthy outcomes start with education, access to care, reasonable, science-based protections enforced by federal, state, or local municipalities. Our commitment is inclusive, accessible, and built to operate above the noise.
One bike ride isn’t going to solve our current problems, but it’s a step in the right direction. Every mile matters, just as every donation, every volunteer, and every advocate contributes to progress. Thanks to everyone who rode in Traverse City today, all month long for the Less Cancer Hike and Bike America, and those who support this important organization year-round.
If you can, consider making a donation to our team and keep Less Cancer going strong.
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