When I was a toddler, my grandfather’s brother lost his life due to cancer. Once I was in middle school, one of my peers was hospitalized and none of us knew why. We later found out she was diagnosed with brain cancer and eventually she passed away. In her name, all the students came together and hosted a huge fundraising event to raise funds for cancer research. Recently, a family friend passed away from cancer as well. The way he lived his last few months became an inspiration to us all. 

These experiences inspired me to confront cancer head-on, but I didn’t know how. As someone who has always been driven by active impact and active service, Texas 4000 for Cancer has given me an opportunity to finally act upon this. I ride for those who can’t. I ride for those who have been impacted. I ride for my grandfather’s brother who succumbed to cancer before I could meet him. I ride for my peer in middle school for whom the community came together. I ride for my family friend who showed me what responsibility looks like in the face of adversity.

Cancer is a prevalent and impactful public health issue in the United States, with approximately 17 million cancer survivors and around 1.8 million new cases diagnosed annually. Nearly 40% of Americans are estimated to be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives and it is the second leading cause of death in the country, accounting for nearly 600,000 deaths each year. When considering the broader impact, including family, friends, and caregivers, over half of the U.S. population is likely affected by cancer either directly or indirectly. Scientists have been at war with cancer for decades and we are still unable to find a solution to eliminate it. Even with modern prevention and early detection methods that have saved countless lives, there are still too many people losing their battles against it. Cancer research is making great strides in increasing our understanding of the disease, but as it is science, there is a constant need for funding. Your support, regardless of its size, holds immense significance. It fuels groundbreaking research, potentially yielding life-saving treatments and therapies. Together, we can provide a beacon of hope to those enduring similar battles, offering comfort and strength.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Your support in contributing to my fundraising efforts will be greatly appreciated as we work together to fight against cancer. Together, we have the power to make a meaningful difference.

If cancer has impacted you in any way at all, or you are compelled to share your story with me, I will gladly hear it and ride for you. Please reach out to me at abhinavrao.talluri@gmail.com or message me @art2alaska on Instagram.

To Alaska and back,

Abhinav Rao Talluri