x
Breaking News
More () »

Cyclists bike from Oregon to New Jersey to raise money for cancer research

'Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer' kicks off at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach on Wednesday.

CANNON BEACH, Ore. — Hundreds of cyclists are about to hit the road on Wednesday, riding from the Oregon Coast to New Jersey to raise money for cancer research. 

The fundraiser 'Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer' kicks off in Cannon Beach on Sept. 8 and ends on Oct. 1. The ride starts at Haystack Rock and goes all the way to Long Branch, New Jersey.

One of the participants, Mark DeLong, is a cancer survivor. He also lost his teenage son, Peter, who battled cancer for two years and died 16 years ago. DeLong said he's going to ride for Peter.

RELATED: ‘Cancer doesn’t stop because of COVID’: Breast Friends seeks donations during pandemic

"My son, Peter, at the end of his life told us that everyday is a gift. I just try to live that and it's just not my motto, it's something I do, so this is a great way for me and my family to give back," DeLong said.

DeLong said these types of fundraisers are crucial in finding a cancer cure.

Credit: Bryant Clerkley

The month-long ride will be done in teams and riders will trade off every 80 miles. The 230 participants are all employees at Bristol Myers Squibb, a company that researches cancer treatments. 

Participants have already raised $500,000 and Bristol Myers matched another $500,000. 

Since 2014, more than 530 Bristol Myers employees have raised over $7 million for cancer research through the 'Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer' rides. If you want to donate, you can go to cancerbikeride.org.

Before You Leave, Check This Out