Before signing up for the Empire State Ride, the longest bike ride Jenine had completed was 35 miles. So what’s inspiring her to set out on a 500+ mile journey?
How did you find out about the Empire State Ride?
I work for the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, which organizes the Empire State Ride.
What inspired you to sign up?
I am inspired every single day at Roswell Park to do something. In my role with the Foundation, I often meet patients. Their fortitude, optimism, kindness, and incredible acceptance of hope inspires me daily.
Terry Bourgeois, the founder of the ESR and a dedicated ambassador for Roswell Park, spoke at an Alliance meeting last fall and shared a video from the 2016 ride. It took only that short video for me to know that this was the something I could do on my own way to feel I was able to offer support and hope for each of these incredibly strong, courageous people I have met, and will continue to meet, who are enduring their fight against cancer.
What is your history as a cyclist? Have you ever done anything similar to the Empire State Ride?
Other than some leisure rides around the neighborhood with my dog joining along in a milk crate, I have not done anything of the sort. I did ride the one-day 35-mile Tour De Farms this past August in Buffalo.
How are you fundraising for the ride?
I’m using Facebook, writing letters, emailing old contacts — just good old fashioned asking! I am also making a $1,000 gift myself to my fundraising efforts.
What do you hope to accomplish by raising funds and completing the ride?
I hope to provide a little hope and support — if even for just a moment — to someone battling cancer. I already know the funds raised will support the incredible, pioneering research that takes place at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. It is very easy to fundraise for Roswell Park because I know each dollar raised is critical, respected, and well spent.
What are you most looking forward to about the ride?
I am looking forward to meeting incredible people inspired to do something good. I’m looking forward to sharing an adventure with like-minded individuals — raising money for an incredible cause, incredible organization, a most important mission. And I’m looking forward to the adventure of one hell of a ride — I have no idea what I’m really in for!
