Kids cancer’ — what an awful term! Cancer itself is horrible in and of itself, as applied to anyone, but when it affects a child who is just starting their life, it is especially devastating for that child and the family that loves them. We have, no doubt, all lost someone to this dreaded disease, me — a mother and a sister, a wonderful neighbor lady, and a best friend from my basketball days. But as much as I mourn the loss of these special people in my life, they all led a fairly long and fruitful life. It does not diminish the pain of the loss we feel, but these young children have their whole lives ahead of them, and this roadblock to their abundant future is particularly devastating.
Jesus once said, “let the children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” Mark 10 versus 13-14, 16. We need to follow his example, and despite all the issues that currently demand our attention and plague this world today, we must first take care of the children, both the healthy and especially the afflicted, both ours and those of others who need our help.
Kids with cancer need our help now, which is why I have pledged to ride my bike 200 miles in September to raise at least $500 toward this worthy cause. I’ll do the riding, and I’m asking you to contribute whatever you can towards this goal. You can visit my Great Cycle Challenge Page at: https://greatcyclechallenge.com/Riders/PaulPetcavage, to keep track of my progress and, of course, to make your donation. Two hundred miles may not seem like a lot until you try and ride it, and I’m no spring chicken anymore, LOL, but slow and steady; I promise I will get it done!
I am dedicating this 200-mile ride in the memory of Angelina Miele, a beautiful 11-year-old who waged a heroic battle with cancer but in 2015 passed on to live, no doubt now, as an angel, with the Lord. She found a special place in my heart as, at the time she was diagnosed, she was a huge St. John Neumann basketball fan, where I was coaching and, in particular, a huge fan of Alize Johnson, a star Neumann player and as of late on the roster of the NBA San Antonio Spurs. I was asked if I could get a basketball signed by the team for her. I suggested I’d do one better and have Alize himself present the ball to her. Alize and I visited, and by his thoughtful presence, he made Angelina’s young lady’s dream come true.
Since that time, I have dedicated a portion of my company’s funds each month to the St. Jude’s Children’s research hospital, which works compassionately and tirelessly to eradicate this dreadful disease. This 200-mile bike challenge is a welcomed extension of my commitment to do whatever I can to help eradicate this disease, particularly for young children. I ask you, not for me, but for the kids that you may help, to join me in this worthy goal. So please donate whatever you can — no amount is too small and is much appreciated for this worthy cause.
