My Pedal the Cause journey began in 2012 when my dad, Dave Hopper, was diagnosed with stage four advanced prostate cancer. He was told he might only have four to five years left. That news was devastating, but it also brought our family closer than ever. My dad fought with incredible strength, faith, and determination for seven and a half years before he lost his battle in March 2019.
Pedal the Cause was something my dad loved deeply. He was honored to be chosen as a 2016 Featured Fighter, and his story and spirit still inspire me every day. In his seven years riding, he helped raise over $127,000 for cancer research. Even after his passing, his memorial fundraising page continues to make an impact, keeping his mission alive. You can watch his Featured Fighter Video here: https://youtu.be/GLPpgNCP9Qo?si=8ssZYEAyiuDUOA4p.
This year, I also ride in honor of my cousin Tonya, who is currently in the middle of her own battle with breast cancer. She is showing the same courage and perseverance I saw in my dad, and I am so proud to stand with her.
Our Hopper family team is once again joining Pedal the Cause to keep fighting for a world without cancer. My mom Patty, my brothers Danny and Tommy, my aunts Sheila and Bonnie, my cousins Jenna, Julia, and Tonya, my Grandpa Hopper, and so many other friends and loved ones will be taking part. And of course, we could not do this without my Uncle Doug, Tonya’s dad and my dad’s brother, who is always there capturing every moment as our own “Hopperazzi.” Although I will not be on a bike this year, Danny and I will be walking 20 miles together as virtual riders to honor my dad, support Tonya, and help keep the momentum going toward a cure. This event has become a tradition for our family, one we look forward to every year as a way to remember, support, and fight together.
Pedal the Cause means hope, community, and determination. Every single dollar raised goes directly to innovative cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Your support brings us closer to the day when no family has to hear the words, “there is nothing more we can do.”
I ride and walk for my dad, for Tonya, and for every person and family touched by cancer. My goal this year is to raise $375, and every donation, no matter the size, helps push us closer to a cure. Please consider making a gift to my Pedal the Cause fundraiser and help me honor my dad’s legacy while supporting Tonya’s fight. Together, we can make a difference.
Offline Payment Instructions
Check Donations - Please make the check payable to Pedal the Cause and mail the check to CIBC c/o Pedal the Cause 8410 Solutions Center Chicago, IL 60677-8004 with the fundraiser name in the memo line.
Stock donations and Donor-Advised Fund - When processing a DAF grant through a charitable giving account, search for the Pedal the Cause by tax ID (27-2233336). In the “notes” section, indicate the Pedal the Cause fundraiser you want to support.
*Once the check is received Pedal the Cause will post the check to your profile. Please note it typically takes 10-14 days to post.
