I initially wanted to join Texas 4000 because it sounded like a cool bike ride. But looking back at everything I have learned from those in my life who have been impacted by cancer, I realized I had a larger reason to apply to Texas 4000.

I ride for my uncle, who was diagnosed with stage III pancreatic cancer in February 2019. I always knew my uncle as a quiet, reserved and calm person. He was always someone you knew you could get good advice from. He loved reading, and even though he didn’t get to do it for most of his life, after his diagnosis he got back into reading. One of his favorites was “To Kill a Mockingbird”. We watched basketball games together and debated what the best film industry is. And, even though it didn’t seem like much, I enjoyed talking about anything but his treatment plan which seemed to make him happier. While Austin and Dallas are just three and a half hours away from each other, I wanted to be there with him to help out in any way possible. But it made seeing him every couple of weekends even more special. Every single time I left to come back to Austin, I would say, “I love you with all of the energy I have,” and I hope that I can do the same for everyone on my team and anyone I meet while raising money and on the ride to Alaska.

I owe it to him and anyone who is fighting or fought the battle against cancer to ride. I also ride for anyone who has been impacted by the battle against cancer. I ride for Jyotish Phoa (uncle), who battled cancer as a single parent. I ride for my father, who lost both of his parents and his sister. I ride for Nikita Mami (aunt), who wore a smile during her treatment plan and is now cancer-free. I ride for Mahee, Dhruv, Parth, and Nilkant, for those who have been brave souls as they had a parent battle cancer. I ride for Mona and her son and daughter, for those who have come out stronger after the battle. I ride for the Tu family, for those who have sacrificed so much to ensure the wellbeing of a loved one. I ride for Emily, Mark, and the Stephens family, for those who always brighten up when they talk about their sibling. I ride for the mother of Jim Hill (Ms. Dorothy Hill), a friendly person who shared his story and provided great company on a strenuous and accomplishing hike. I ride for the dada (grandfather) of Jai Nekkileru and his family, for those who hold their family close to their heart. I ride for anyone you may know that has been impacted by cancer, and please feel free to share their/your story.

To Alaska and Back,

Radhika
(Radhi)

(469) 426-8451
radhika.patel@utexas.edu