2,467. That's how many miles Jennifer Duncan has cycled for children with cancer. That's the equivalent of riding her bike from her hometown in Las Vegas across nine states all the way to Pottstown, Pennsylvania.
"Wow! I didn't realize how many miles I have cycled for this cause over the years! That's incredible," exclaimed Duncan. "I have documented every single ride with a picture, too."
Duncan is gearing up to ride another 200 miles during the month of September — Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — for the Children's Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) in support of its annual Great Cycle Challenge USA. It's a crusade CCRF started in 2014 and one Jennifer has participated in since its inception. This will be her ninth year riding every single day in September with the fundraising goal of $1,000. In all, she's raised more than $6,400 for this cause.
“Over 15,000 American children are diagnosed with cancer every year and, sadly, 38 children die every week,” said Erin Cohen, Director, Events & Partnerships at Children’s Cancer Research Fund. “Thanks to riders like Jennifer, we’re fueling groundbreaking research to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve.”
Duncan's motivation isn't because of a personal experience with cancer, but there could be several factors at play when it comes to her "why."
"No one should have to battle cancer but to know kids are out there suffering, trying to find the strength to fight, just makes me sad," said Duncan. "I wish to see in my lifetime, a world that is cancer free."
When she's on a long ride, she reflects on a child's journey through cancer treatment and digs deep to push through the pain. Duncan explains, "When it’s hot and I’m exhausted, I absolutely think about the kids. I tell myself this is nothing compared to what these kids have to go through.”
Yet Duncan's life hasn't been without her own personal struggles and health challenges. She and her husband don't have kids, but that's not due to a lack of trying. They always wanted children. "We tried fertility and just couldn't make it happen. I then had to get a partial hysterectomy recently, so it's not in our cards," said Duncan. "We do have fur babies, and they are treated like our children."
Those fur babies include two dogs and a cat named Winnie, Roo, and Tigger. Are you sensing a theme here?
"I love Winnie- the-Pooh, obviously," said Duncan. And she said she has a favorite quote from the popular children's storybook. The quote has different variations. She likes this one:
Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you know. – Christopher Robin to Winnie-the-Pooh
"This is one that has always resonated with me. The reason being is I am always my own worst critic. My ‘hammer’ I carry around is large, and I’m constantly ‘using it’ on myself. I look at this quote often to give myself a gentle reminder," explained Duncan.
Duncan doesn't have to go far to find other reminders; she has an army of people in her corner. She has raised thousands of dollars over the years because she has so many people rooting for her on the sidelines. People like Kary Scherf who wrote on social media, "You should be absolutely proud of yourself. You are a rock star for doing this every year." And Whitney and Shawn Henry who wrote, "Thank YOU for working so hard for such a worthy cause!!" Crystal Willis said, "I admire all of your amazing dedication and commitment!"
And her biggest cheerleader is her husband, Derek. He's her partner in life and partner in riding. Derek does the Great Cycle Challenge, too. They are both part of the Las Vegas chapter, and their team is always looking for people to join the cause.
Duncan said, "People can pick their own mileage and fundraising goal. They can ride solo, at their own pace, on a stationary bike, whatever! We would love to get more awareness around this cause."
It's obvious the Children's Cancer Research Fund isn't the only one benefiting from her efforts. Las Vegas is lucky to have such a committed, generous, and loving person like Jennifer Duncan in our community. To learn more about Jennifer’s Great Cycle Challenge USA and to make a donation, please visit greatcyclechallenge.com/Riders/JenniferDuncan1. To participate in Great Cycle Challenge USA, visit greatcyclechallenge.com.
