Since its inception in 2010, Pedal the Cause has invested more than $56 million in 285 adult and pediatric cancer research projects at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. These investments have generated breakthroughs in immunotherapy, cancer vaccines, precision surgery and clinical trials. Each year, thousands of cyclists, hundreds of volunteers and more than 100,000 donors step up in the fight against cancer. The fundraising bike ride is an inspiring example of how powerful it can be when St. Louisans come together for a meaningful purpose.
Pedal the Cause’s model is possible thanks to the support of corporate sponsors. This year’s event is co-sponsed by Edward Jones, St. Louis Area Hyundai Dealers and the Hope on Wheels Foundation. Edward Jones has supported the event since its inception and also organizes one of the largest cycling teams. “From the very beginning, Edward Jones has been more than a sponsor, they have been a driving force behind Pedal the Cause,” executive director David Drier says. “As a presenting sponsor and largest corporate team, they have demonstrated what’s possible when a company fully embraces a mission. Their leadership, generosity and participation have helped transform local fundraising into global breakthroughs in cancer research, and we are honored to continue this journey together.”
This year, Team Edward Jones will ride in support of a pediatric cancer patient as part of Pedal the Cause’s Ride for a Child initiative. The program pairs teams with children who have gone through treatment or are currently being treated at Siteman Kids. Through pre-ride meet-ups and events, teams are able to form a meaningful connection with the child and their family. Team Edward Jones will ride in support of 7-year-old Olivia, who is being treated for a form of brain cancer known as a low-grade brainstem glioma. Her cancer journey began shortly before starting kindergarten. Thanks to Olivia’s remarkable strength and the support of the team at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, she is now nearing the end of her treatment.
“Team Edward Jones rides together every year toward a shared finish line and an audacious goal: a world without cancer,” says Emery Skolfield, Edward Jones principal and Pedal the Cause board member. “That’s the mission. That’s what keeps us showing up, trying new things and rallying our supporters year after year. We draw inspiration from those in our lives who have been impacted by cancer and from brave fighters like Olivia. Go, Olivia and all those who are supporting this worthy cause.”
This year, Pedal the Cause will be held Sept. 19 and 20 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. The ride weekend also includes activities like Taste the Cause, the Inspirational Program and the Kids Challenge. Edward Jones managing partner Penny Pennington notes that it is an opportunity for St. Louisans to make a difference. “At Edward Jones, we believe that creating lasting impact starts by investing in the people and places we serve,” she says. “Pedal the Cause is a powerful example of what can happen when people unite with purpose—turning hope into action and funding lifesaving cancer research right here in St. Louis. We are proud to stand alongside this incredible community as we work together to kick cancer to the curb.”
Pedal the Cause, an annual cycling challenge benefiting research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, will be held Sept. 19 and 20. Pictured on the cover: Cathy Heimburger, Ride for a Child Olivia, Justin Fanger, Anthony Kania, Jacqueline Frick Hulsey, Mike Madalon. For more information or to register or donate, visit pedalthecause.org.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at the top: Ride for a Child participant Olivia
Photo: Tim Parker Photography