Wicked in Pink set to roll against cancer Date: 9/25/2014 SOUTHAMPTON – A pink pancake breakfast will kick off the second Wicked in Pink Run, hosted by founder Bob “Kaine” Alves, on Oct. 12 at Harley Davidson of Southampton on Route 10.
Alves, owner of Throttle Rocker magazine based in Agawam, is a cancer survivor who created this event to give back to those who helped him when he was battling head and neck cancer in 2012.
During an interview with Reminder Publications, Alves noted that 200 bikers took to the road last year in his first run, and hopes even more individuals will consider participating this year.
“This is a great cause to help all people battling cancer,” he said, noting that $5,000 was raised last fall.
During Alves’ year-long battle with cancer, he received “amazing treatment” and came into daily contact “with some of the most caring and compassionate staff” at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield.
“When I was healthy again, I knew I would have to find a way to repay them for all they did and just saying thank you wasn’t going to be enough,” he said.
Alves created this event to show support for all types of cancer and because it occurs in October which is best known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, he chose pink as the color theme.
He hopes that hundreds of bikers join his “sea of pink” – pink wigs, scarves, shirts, hats or pants – whatever one is most comfortable wearing.
Alves’ mission is to raise money for the cancer center’s Patient Services Fund which provides direct support to patients in dire financial need.
“This assistance will help patients cover unexpected expenses associated with their care,” he said.
Alves noted that all applicants are reviewed on a case by case basis and the fund is a “last resort” for patients with few assets and funds.
Funds can include medication costs, transportation to and from appointments, special clothes, shoes or other accessories related to cancer care and treatment, nutritional supplements, and subsidizing special programs and the purchase of equipment to improve the delivery of care for the patient.
The cost to participate is $20 per person and riders can register starting at 9:30 a.m. Kick stand up is at noon.
“We have added 20 miles to this year’s route,” said Alves, noting that the destination once again will be the Summit View Banquet & Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Disc jockey Rev Ron will provide the afternoon entertainment and “another great meal” is planned.
For more information, visit www.wickedinpinkrun.com or call 726-9021. For persons unable to participate in the run, donations can also be made on the website under the donate link.
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