Pedal the Cause is an inspiring example of how powerful it can be when St. Louisans join forces for a meaningful purpose. Since 2010, the cycling fundraiser has raised more than $51 million to help make 243 research projects possible at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. For every $1 raised by the fundraiser, an additional $14 is contributed by outside sources, meaning Pedal the Cause has been a catalyst for bringing more than half a billion dollars in research funds to the region to support the fight against cancer. Those numbers represent thousands of people coming together, whether they are riders, volunteers or donors.
Since its inception, the event’s presenting sponsor has been Edward Jones. The company also organizes one of the largest cycling teams. “Pedal the Cause has been transformed by the support of Edward Jones,” says Eleanor Goedeke, director of communications and marketing. “Every year, the company rallies employees around St. Louis and across the country to participate, and the team has raised more than $7 million to date. It has been a major force in helping us fight for a world without cancer.”
One member of Team Edward Jones is Annie Donnell. Born blind, she currently serves as an accessibility services specialist for the company. She is able to participate in the event by tandem biking with her father. This will be their third year riding for Pedal the Cause. “I love the event, and it’s great knowing that you’re helping fund cancer research in St. Louis,” she says. “My brother-in-law passed away from sarcoma cancer in 2018, and I’ve also lost a friend to leukemia. I ride in their honor.”
Donnell got involved with Pedal the Cause shortly after joining Edward Jones. She’s grateful the company has given her the opportunity to support such an important initiative. “I’m glad I was able to jump right into Team Edward Jones—participating is always a highlight of my year,” she says. “There are team rides throughout the year, and before Pedal the Cause weekend, there is a lunch so everyone can meet one another. Our managing partner Penny Pennington also shares her own personal experience with cancer, which is powerful to hear. It’s a great group to be a part of.”
This year, Donnell is looking forward to tackling the Ted Jones Katy Classic, a 30-mile ride along the Katy Trail. It’s just one of the seven new courses ranging from 10 to 100 miles offered by Pedal the Cause, which will be held Sept. 20 and 21 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Riders also can opt to use stationary bikes in the Spin Zone or participate virtually. Other highlights of the weekend include Taste the Cause and the Inspirational Program. “We all hope to one day live in a world without cancer,” Goedeke says. “Supporting Pedal the Cause is something you can do to help make that a reality. It is hope in action.”
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. 20 and 21. Pictured on the cover: Team Edward Jones member Annie Donnell with her father John Donnell. 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: Annie Donnell and her father, John Donnell
Photo: Tim Parker Photography
