I discovered this event way back when it had a different name and it was only a bike ride event. I tried to participate for close to 10 years before, finally, having the day off and registering. That was in 2023, and I ended up not going, partly because I was still recovering from my ankle surgery in 2022, and I didn't feel confident in my ability to ride any significant distance. I signed up again in 2024, feeling only slightly better prepared, but more confident....the event got canceled because of severe wind and rain.

Then last year, 2025, I consciously made it my goal to do this ride. I sent out emails at work and got two people interested in participating with me (in different events), and I made an effort in the fundraising area, which, really, is the point of this event. I also spent the summer riding as much as possible...even after I ran into some pretty major issues with my bike. The crank/pedal *fell off* while I was riding....4 weeks before the event. Thankfully, I was on a busy bike path and a little over a mile from work. The cranks were replaced and I was back riding, with two weeks to go.

The event itself was amazing. They go all out with celebrating fundraising goals and the participants themselves, many of whom are survivors of cancer. It was awesome and emotional, and I can't wait to ride again this year.

The reason I am so passionate about this ride: I know far too many people who have been affected by a cancer diagnosis. This includes *both* of my parents, my grandparents, several uncles, aunts, and even first cousins. Beyond my family, I have too many co-workers for whom I mourned when they conceded the fight with cancer.

Last year was an emotional year; my dad's brother died from prostate cancer. A friend from high school passed from breast cancer. A co-worker was taken by a rare form of cancer that advanced quickly. They are why I ride. Why I will always ride, as long as I am able. For them and the people I know currently battling cancer. The research done as a result of fundraising from this event is crucial.

Please consider making a donation. If you would like to participate, there are options for walking and running, as well as biking. The event will be Sunday, September 27th, this year. Spectators are welcome, if anyone in the madison area (or beyond) is interested in coming to cheer us all on 🙂🚴‍♀️🚴‍♀️🚴‍♀️🚴‍♀️

Thanks for reading! 🤟

~Paula

Welcome to my fundraising page!

I am proudly helping accelerate cancer research and patient treatment initiatives forward at the University of Wisconsin through my involvement in Badger Challenge - an annual walking, running, and biking event which powers the brightest cancer minds, ideas and technologies at UW. We all have been affected by cancer in some way and more needs to be done to combat this terrible disease.

The Badger Challenge's mission is to give 100% of all participant-raised dollars (yes, every penny!) to the most promising UW cancer initiatives both in the laboratory and clinic setting. Since 2016, Badger Challenge has raised over $5.5 million and what’s best of all is our ability to see where the money goes as Badger Challenge presents their Scholars each year!

Badger Challenge takes place in September and 100% of all dollars-raised are presented to the newly announced Scholar Class by January of the next year. This is done quickly so the funds can make an impact in the labs and hospital helping patients and families immediately. 

Help me support Badger Challenge and its UW cancer mission. All contributions are appreciated - whether it is $5 or $500, every dollar counts and you can be assured that every dollar you give goes back to the cause and helping those affected by cancer. 

If you are unable to make a monetary donation at this point, please help us reach our goal by sharing this page with others on social media! Even better, send an email to friends you think might be interested in contributing or joining Badger Challenge and include a link to our page.

To learn more about Badger Challenge (and to sign up yourself!) please go to BadgerChallenge.org.

Thank you so much for your generosity! Together we can help write the story that ends cancer!