Cyclists ride for cancer charities

    A mission that started as an idea to honor a loved one who died from cancer five years ago and to also support a current one receiving treatment, has evolved into five friends taking a grueling challenge of cycling from Fort Kent to Kittery to raise money for cancer research.     From passion, dedication, and inspiration, Spokes for Hope — a ride across Maine against cancer — was established.
    “Cancer has deeply impacted members of our group,” said Melanie Stewart, one of the cyclists. “The group includes a cancer survivor; several members who have lost loved ones to cancer; several who have loved ones currently battling cancer; and those representing caregivers, medical professionals, and volunteers. This ride is much more than the bike or the accomplishment of the ride- it is about giving hope.  Hope to those with cancer to continue the fight, hope to those who have won their battle to live life again, and hope that we all will find a cure for cancer.”
    Beginning Sept. 3. five cyclists and two friends driving support vehicles will make their way from Fort Kent to Kittery over five days. Spokes for Hope riders and supporters are: Jeff Bennett of Bangor, Stephanie Caverhill of Caribou, Jonathan Kelley of Caribou, Kelly Kelley of Caribou, Melanie Stewart of Presque Isle, Kyle Washington of Presque Isle, and Denise Young of Presque Isle.
    The nearly 400 miles will be covered over the Labor Day weekend, with two consecutive days of 100 miles ridden.
    This year two charities were chosen for the group to support — the Dempsey Challenge, Oct. 4 in Lewiston, benefiting the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and the LiveSTRONG Challenge, Oct. 24 and 25 in Austin, Texas, benefiting the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
    “Cancer has affected the lives of each rider, making this venture all the more reason to face the challenge of a multi-day, extensive ride,” Stewart said. “Each has the desire to utilize their athletic abilities to raise money for cancer charities. This ride is the major fundraiser for each of the cyclists.”
    The first day will take riders from Fort Kent to Houlton along Routes 161, 1, and 2; Day two will travel along Route 2 and finish in Bangor; Day three will travel along Route 202 and finish in Augusta; Day four will travel along Routes 201 and 1 and finish in Portland; and the final day will travel along Route 1 finishing at the Maine/New Hampshire border in Kittery.
    For more information or to make a donation, contact Jonathan Kelley at (418) 356-6493 or visit www.spokesforhope.com, which will also include daily updates along the ride