This year I am dedicating my ride to my wonderful brother, Charles (Chuck) Walter.  Chuck is a role model to family and friends because of his hard work, community service, kindness to others and his strong faith.  Recently Chuck's busy life ground to an unexpected halt when he was diagnosed with bone cancer.  Chuck was being treated at Roswell Park.  His cancer was challenging for Drs. and frustrating for us, and we believed we were in the right place to get this treated.  The health professionals there were second to none.  Their kindness, patience, and professionalism was comforting and encouraging to us and for that we thank them.  Chuck, I and our family have experienced first hand the amazing work done at Roswell Park.  Unfortunately, Chuck's time at Roswell was short lived, as other health issued forced him to pause his cancer treatment.  

I would also like to thank the friends and family that help support cancer research and cancer patients. Through the gifts of time, talents and money, these wonderful people (including you!) help make the struggle a little more bearable.  I know I speak for everyone battling cancer, when I say that you are appreciated, and your kindness, thoughfulness, and generosity do not go unnoticed.

To my family, that answers my emails each year, and support my ride, thank you.  To my friends and neighbors that supported my "Ride for Roswell" and/or the food cart fund raiser, I appreciate the support.  Together we can and do make a difference. 

This year, 2024, I am celebrating my thirtenth year of being cancer free (prostate cancer). I am one of the lucky ones.  We have a lot of work to do, to find cures for all cancers, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  

I would like to thank Maryann Salvadore, our team captain.  Maryann is a cancer survivor herself, who works selflessly and tirelessly to rally the troops each year.  She is first to donate her time and talents, and first to lend a caring ear or kind word.  Thank you again, Maryann, for all you do. 

Cancer doesn’t care. It doesn’t care about age. It doesn’t care about your family or friends. It doesn’t care about what it takes from us — or who it leaves behind. 

Please help me raise critically needed funds to support the more than 50,000 patients who turn to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center for hope each year. Your donation provides funding that researchers need in order to investigate new treatment options that could save lives in our community and around the world. For every dollar donated, Roswell Park can leverage an additional $13 in new grant funding. Please consider making a donation today to help find cures. Together, we can make a difference.