Credit: Submitted
A Bristol Borough man has begun a 550-mile bike trek to raise money to fight cancer.
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Eric Sokalski embarked Sunday on an ambitious ride from New York City to Niagara Falls to raise money for cancer research.
With the support of his wife and children, Sokalski is participating in the Empire State Ride, a journey dedicated to ending cancer and supporting the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in upstate New York.
“Cancer affects everybody and not a soul isn’t affected by it,” he said.
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The borough man said his mother-in-law and a longtime friend are currently fighting cancer and an uncle died from it last year.
The funds raised by riders in the Empire State Ride go toward supporting cutting-edge cancer research and aiding scientists in developing new treatments and preventative measures.
“I know cancer takes such a toll, and I’m willing to help fight it,” Sokalski explained. “If the money raised from the ride helps with new breakthroughs, it’s worth it.”
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To mark the 10th anniversary of the Empire State Ride, Sokalski is determined to make a difference.
“I learned about the ride about a year ago,” he said. “I turned 40 and wanted to do something big for it.”
His preparation for the trek has included training with the Princeton Freewheelers Bicycle Club, long-distance rides, hilly routes, and spin classes.
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Sokalski credited his wife, Brooke, a spin instructor at the YMCA in Bristol Township and a triathlete, with helping him prepare for the ride.
“My family supports me and a lot of my closest friends have supported me by donating or sharing on social media if they couldn’t donate,” Sokalski said.
For his ride, Sokalski raised $3,600 for cancer research, which is more than his goal was set at. Donations can still be made.
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“I thought it was pretty awesome that every dollar I fundraise helps fund treatment,” he said, noting that there are grants to match what he has raised.
During the ride, Sokalski will be joined by two veteran riders from the region – Bucks County native and current North Wales resident Jason Maher, and Jim McDevitt of Philadelphia.
The Empire State Ride features a total of 300 participants.
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During the week-long ride, there will be stops along the route for breaks and overnight camping.
When the ride concludes at Niagara Falls, Sokalski plans to hold his bicycle up and embrace his wife and children.
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Following the race, Sokalski plans to begin training for the upcoming Philadelphia Marathon.
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