Hi, I’m Patti Anderson. In July of 2012 our family, totally by accident, became hosts for the 4K for Cancer cycling team to San Francisco. This experience changed our lives. We were hooked. Each year we worked harder and were better able to serve these teams as they passed through our little desert town in Nevada. To date, our family and with help from lots of friends, have hosted  4 years for the cyclists and last June, for the runners going to Baltimore. We learned what Ulman Cancer Fund and the 4K for Cancer is all about. CYCLE-INSPIRE-UNITE!!

My story: I have seen many friends and family suffer through the experience of cancer and some losing their lives to this ugly disease. My mom had Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and my step mom had cancer. Both are survivors.  I never thought it would happen to me. Last February I found a lump in my breast. I panicked, and immediately dealt with it. I had a lumpectomy on March 11, where they found LCIS, Lobular Carcinoma In Situ. I had many bouts of terror, wondering what would happen and in June, I had a clean MRI. My oncologist told me to go live my life and ride my bike.

I want to ride in the Keys to Keys to have the experience.  I want to make a difference, a light to someone fighting and suffering from cancer. I am an avid cheerleader for cancer patients and urge them to fight hard-for they are the heroes. If I can make a difference in someone’s life on this trip, then I have done my job. My trip will be for 8 days in April, from Baltimore to Key West, Florida. Our team will be riding and visiting cancer treatment centers and spreading awareness about Cancer. What a privilege I have-to be selected for this team.

On October 26 I was hit by a truck while riding my bike. I was thrown about 8-10 feet. Four days later I was accepted to participate in Keys to Keys.  I am now recovering with a full goal to ride this ride. My life was spared by God and there is a purpose. I am riding for those who can’t-simply that.

This wonderful organization gives scholarships, provides chemo bags for patients, patient navigation, and support for young adults who just got diagnosed and have no idea where to go next. It’s hard enough to hear that news, “You have cancer” and then know what to do after the shock wears off. Ulman provides that support, the information, the “where to go” that cancer patients need. Today cancer is the leading disease killer among 20- to 39-year-olds.

Please consider donating to this great cause. Your donation can make a difference in a person’s life. All donations tax exempt.

Cancer changes lives-and so do WE!!!!

UCF Key to Keys Experience is a journey that brings together a diverse group of individuals to build a community of support for those affected by cancer. Using cycling as a platform, Key to Keys participants come together throughout the journey to share their individual cancer connections and give out as much support to others as they are receiving.