NEWBERRY — Newberry College senior Talya Stocksdale will be biking across the United States this summer from Baltimore, Md., to Portland, Ore., with the 4K for Cancer group to raise money for the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults.
Stocksdale and her team will depart from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on June 4, 2017 and arrive at Overlook Park in Portland, Ore. on Aug. 12, 2017. The 70-day, 4,000-mile journey will require riders to cycle between 50 and 100 miles each day over diverse terrain.
Stocksdale first heard about the 4K for Cancer program when a family friend completed the ride in 2013, followed by her brother in 2014. This past summer, Stocksdale’s family was able to host Team Baltimore when they travelled through Deep Creek Lake, Md. Stocksdale hopes to raise $4,500.
“I feel the need to honor those who have lost their battle or have been diagnosed with cancer, as well as those who have faced the disease and are still fighting,” Stocksdale said. “By ‘paying it forward’ I hope to make a difference in those I meet along the way.”
Interested parties can donate on her fundraising page.
2017 marks the 16th year of 4K for Cancer cycling across the United States in the fight against cancer, and the seventh year of the Baltimore to Portland ride.
Ten rest days will be built into the trip where participants will raise awareness and provide direct support to young adults impacted by cancer.
Some highlights of the ride will include stops at Mt. Rushmore, Black Hills National Forest and Grand Teton National Park.