POHR 2024 Spotlights: Janet Winston, Cyclist and Cancer Caregiver

Janet with the Winston tandem; Janet and her mom six months before she passed away.

We’re kicking off our 2024 Pan Ohio Hope Ride spotlights with a first-time rider, Janet Walbroehl Winston, who will be riding with her husband Christopher Winston on a 1999 Cannondale tandem bike, restored and remade especially for this event. 

“My husband had such a great time doing the ride, and I REALLY believe in this cause,” which is why Janet decided to join him for his second year as a Pan Ohio Hope Rider. She’s looking to make new friends, like he has, who share common interests. 

“It takes a lot of communication to ride a tandem, and our 30 years of marriage have been good training for this. I’m the stoker (on the back), so I don’t have to worry about anything except pedaling (and sometimes I might not even do that – just don’t tell my husband!).”

Like so many of us, she has a few close connections to cancer, including a grandfather who passed away before she was born. 

“My father developed colon cancer when I was in high school and dealt with recurrences of cancer over the next 25 years,” she says. “He died of metastatic brain cancer in 2012. My mom had skin cancer, CLL (Chronic Lymphoblastic Leukemia), and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.” That’s how Janet and her sister became dedicated caregivers, helping their parents. 

“We were known as the “fun family” at the cancer center and the hospital – laughing and joking together through the treatments. I lived about 10 minutes from my parents, so I was on call for emergencies late at night and on weekends.” Janet adds: “As stressful as it was, being one of their caregivers is something I’ll treasure. We got to share laughter and tears, and I got to witness their courage firsthand.”

Sadly, their mother passed away in 2019. Asked what she’d say to others given the chance, Janet said: “I was fortunate to live close to my parents, and they had access to first-class cancer treatment near where they lived. Not everyone is that lucky. Living with cancer is a stressful time; people shouldn’t have to stress about traveling hours to receive treatment. The Hope Lodges take away some of that stress and allow people with cancer to focus on getting better.”

Thank you, Janet, for joining us for the 2024 Pan Ohio Hope Ride. With your support, we can help end cancer as we know it, for everyone!

Celebrate National Book Lovers Day with a Pan Ohio Hope Ride Recommended Read!

If you love a book where the protagonist faces death-defying challenges with a brave heart and the support by a loving and loyal companion, you need to read “The Man in the Arena: Surviving Multiple Myeloma Since 1992” by James Bond.

In 1992, almost by chance James “Jim” Bond (Pan Ohio’s own 007) was diagnosed with advanced-stage multiple myeloma and learned that he might have only a few months to live.

Thus began his quest…

#SpoilerAlert – Science fiction became fact when, thanks to groundbreaking ACS-funded research, clinical trials, and the Pan Ohio Hope Ride, Jim defied the odds.

More than 30 years and 3 cancers later, he continues to be a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer.

Kathleen Bond, Jim’s wife and the co-founder of the Pan Ohio Hope Ride, has been beside Jim every step (and pedal crank) of his journey, supporting him AND his medical team with passion, determination, and wisdom.

Jim has been using his book to raise money for cancer patients, and this year, he has again offered to help Pan Ohio participants raise money for the Cleveland Hope Lodge. Here’s how:

• Buy the book and invite others to purchase it from retailers such as Amazon.
• Email a copy of the receipt (photo, screenshot, or pdf) to POHR staff at PanOhioInfo@cancer.org, referencing the name of the Pan Ohio participant.
• Jim donates the purchase price back to the participant’s Pan Ohio fundraising!
• Offer runs thru August 25 to ensure fundraisers will be credited by the close of the event on August 31.

DON’T DELAY: Celebrate National Book Lovers Day by purchasing Jim Bond’s inspiring book TODAY!

Biomarker Testing and the Ohio American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

ACS Chief Science Officer Dr. Bill Dahut addressed his fellow Pan Ohio participants during the event’s Recognition Dinner at the University of Dayton on July 22, 2023, about advances in cancer research.

During the 2023 Pan Ohio Hope Ride, we were privileged to hear from first-time POHR rider AND American Cancer Society Chief Science Officer Dr. Bill Dahut. In addition to calling the Pan Ohio Hope Ride the best bike ride he’s ever been on, he spoke about cancer research and tests that enable doctors to develop customized treatments for the individual patient to help their body fight cancer through its own immunity and cells. 

Julie Turner and Sarah Morris, both cancer survivors and employees of ACS CAN Ohio, shared their stories and spoke about how Ohioans can advocate for cancer prevention, detection, research, and treatment.

We also heard from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) – Ohio members Julie Turner and Sarah Morris about the work they’re doing right here in Ohio to remove barriers to such lifesaving tests and screenings, and the actions we, as citizens, can take in a matter of minutes to support that work.

This brand new video (y en Español) by ACS CAN provides just one example of how a test for biomarkers helped save a man’s life when traditional cancer treatments were ineffective.

Cesar Serrano, cancer survivor, explained how a test for biomarkers saved his life!

Proceeds from the 2023 Pan Ohio Hope Ride will support the operational budget of the Cleveland Hope Lodge, which helps patients directly in the midst of their individual fight against cancer. Covering the operational budget of this critical patient service, frees up other ACS funds to support patient services, screenings, education, and research that helps patients like Cesar Serrano.

Donate at pohr.org to help patients now AND in the future. 

Then, learn more about biomarker testing at FightCancer.org/Biomarkers.

POHR Spotlight: Sean McClain, Featured Rider AND Volunteer

Sean McClain, participating this year as a Create Your Own 328 rider, has been a fixture around the American Cancer Society Pan Ohio Hope Ride since he joined the event in 2011. He has been both rider and volunteer, including a stint as the event’s co-chair.

A friend of Sean’s, Mike Hammontree, told me about this event as both were endeavoring to make some major lifestyle changes to improve their health.

“His friend, Adam Kuhn, passed away from cancer, and this was his (Mike’s) way to be healthier and to fight back against cancer,” says Sean. “In turn, my grandfather died of cancer back in 2001 and my grandmother in 2009. I personally witnessed my grandmother pass away. That is something that stays with you. So this became my way to honor them as well as to become healthier.”

In those early years, several people Sean knew faced cancer – some survived, some did not.

“I felt this was a calling to be further entrenched with the event and raise funds for the ACS and be that advocate for those fighting cancer. As the years have gone on, more people I knew became affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly.”

As the four-day ride wrapped up in 2019, fundraising was closing in on the $1 million mark – something it had never done before.

“I wanted to help get us there, so I came up with something called the “Five Ohio Hope Ride,” where I would ride a least five miles everyday in the month of August to keep on raising money,” Sean explains. “We were able to get to $1 million raised so it became a push to get to Dynamo for the first time – I was able to get to Dynamo on the last day of August, which was also the last day of fundraising for the year.”

Sean has managed to join the Dynamo Club (raising at least $5,000 in a fundraising season), each year since then. Unfortunately, a slow-to-heal ankle injury on Christmas Day 2022, sidelined Sean from the four-day event so he went back to “Five Ohio Hope Ride,” riding at least 5 but often 10 or more miles a day in July. The day before the in-person ride, Sean became a Dynamo once again, which is extra special this year since his jersey concept was made into the 2023 Dynamo Club Jersey.

“Really it’s the people and it’s the cause that brings me back each year. I honestly feel this was something I was meant to do and fate brought me here – and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Fellow Pan Ohio Volunteer and Rider Jody McClain joined her husband Sean for the 2021 POHR Cloverleaf.

Thank you, Sean, for all you have and all you will do for the American Cancer Society Pan Ohio Hope Ride. While many of us wrapped up our journey on Sunday, July 23, you (and other Create Your Own 328 riders) are still plugging away. Know that we’re on the virtual sidelines cheering for you every mile of the way as you complete your personal Hope Ride this year.

POHR Rider Spotlight: Champion of Hope Todd Wesley

For those who don’t recognize him, that IS a (beardless) Jeff Darpel on the left, next to Tony Kellerman, with Todd on the right.

Todd Wesley, a Cincinnati Cycle Dawg, is a survivor, and that makes him one of our Champions of Hope. 

“When I was told about the tumors on my lungs, I called a good friend, Jeff Darpel, who told me I was going to beat Cancer, and I would need to ride the ‘Pan Ohio Hope Ride’ with him,” says Todd. “I donated a number of years to him but never rode. I promised I would ride when I beat it – which thankfully I did, and I kept my promise…I am very blessed to have beaten Lung Cancer over 8 years ago. Earlier this year I had a tumor come back, but thankfully it was benign.”

In addition to lung cancer, Todd continues to battle skin cancer. 

“I might miss a year, but I never seem to make it two years without having Melanoma and Basal Cell Carcinoma leave another scar somewhere on my body,” he explains. But Todd doesn’t only ride and raise money because of his own personal cancer fight. 

“Everyone has someone in their life that has been impacted by cancer; this horrible disease has impacted many of my family and friends.” he says, having lost his grandmothers, an aunt, an uncle, and a step-uncle to cancer. 

“This year it has impacted me again that someone very close to me, and someone way too young has started her fight with this disease. I hate cancer with a passion and would do anything to trade spots with this person. Unfortunately, that is not how life works. All I can do is pray that everyone who is battling cancer gets to hear those words ‘Cancer Free’ and to continue to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.”

Proceeds from this year’s Pan Ohio Hope Ride support the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Cleveland, Ohio. Helping cover their operational budget not only helps the cancer patients who stay at the Hope Lodge when their best treatment option is far from home, it frees up funds to support other American Cancer Society patient services as well as research and educational outreach to help end cancer as we know it, for everyone. 

“What a wonderful cause,” Todd says, “And I’m so fortunate to have met some of the most incredible people over the last 7 years participating in this event….One day there will be a cure, and no one will lose their battle with this dreaded disease.” 

To which we can only add a big “amen, Todd!” 

Thank you, Todd, for your passion and dedication to the cause, and thanks Jeff for being a great friend and an awesome Hope Ride ambassador.

POHR Rider Spotlight: Libby Kempe

Left: Libby Banfield Kempe, an angel of Mercy; right: Christina Janus, Paula Hendryx and Libby are Mind Brain Social Club (MBSC) as well as medical institution team members. Center: Libby’s brother and guardian angel Wayne Banfield.

“My brother Wayne died seven years ago of a rare cancer,” explains Libby Banfield Kempe. “He and I loved to cycle. We only rode once together many years ago – he talked and laughed the whole time, I swore. He always tried to get me to ride again with him, but we never did due to work and family commitments – usually on my part – which I regret.”

Libby joined the Pan Ohio Hope Ride as a member of Team Mind Brain Social Club in 2018 after donating to Dr. Paula Hendryx’s fundraiser. She knew little about the ride and assumed it was a “one day gig.” She must’ve liked it…because she keeps coming back all four days, every year – riding in memory of Wayne (pictured).

“Last year my sister-in-law, Pat, was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer – she’s a tough retired nurse,” explains Libby. “I am a Nurse Practitioner and, sadly, have informed patients of a new diagnosis of cancer. I attempt to be supportive, informative…but also realistic with every patient. The resilience and courage of my patients and family members taught me I can dedicate four days of my life – mentally, physically, and financially – and many months attempting to raise money for someone I have never met.”

Riding in the POHR also allows her to raise awareness of cancer care and the services offered by American Cancer Society Hope Lodges.

“It can be mentally and physically challenging,” Libby says, “but you walk away with a sense of accomplishment, raising money for people in need, amazing new friends and pride in yourself.

In the last week of December 2022, Libby broke her kneecap. Even that hasn’t stopped her. On March 18th, after a follow-up x-ray of her patella, she posted on Facebook that it had “better be healed because I’ve started bike training. I’ve got a date with my bike and Ohio in July!”

This year Libby is not only riding for her brother Wayne (as always) but for her sister-in-law Pat Starcher-Banfield too. She says that her motto for the year is: “Whatever is good for your soul, DO THAT,” adding that “This ride and the people I have met are good for my soul!”

Thank you, Libby, for being both gentle and tough in the face of cancer and the arduous but epic fundraising 328-plus mile ride. You make it clear why nurses are referred to as Angels of Mercy!

Buy Bond’s Book to Bump Up Donations to Pan Ohio Hope Ride Participants

In 1992 Jim Bond was diagnosed with advanced-stage multiple myeloma and learned that he might have just a few months to live. Thanks to groundbreaking ACS-funded research and the Pan Ohio Hope Ride, Jim defied all odds. More than 30 years and 3 cancers later, he continues to be a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer. 

Author donates back to POHR Participant Fundraisers

During the pandemic, Jim captured his story in a book he titled “The Man in the Arena: Surviving Multiple Myeloma Since 1992.” Now he’s using this book to help POHR participants reach their fundraising goals to support cancer patients by generously donating back to any participant who purchases a copy or encourages others to do so. 

• Purchase the book and invite others to buy a copy at available retailers, such as Amazon.
• Email a copy of the receipt (photo, screenshot, or pdf) to PanOhioInfo@cancer.org, referencing the name of the referring POHR participant, and Jim will donate the purchase price back to the participant’s Pan Ohio fundraising!
• Promotion runs from now (May 8, 2023) through August 25, 2023. Purchases made by July 14 will be credited prior to the start of the 2023 event; those made after July 14 will be credited by the close of fundraising on August 31.

About Jim and Kathleen’s Story

In “The Man in the Arena,” Jim talks about the events leading up to his diagnosis, the medical team and treatments that helped him survive and thrive after his cancer diagnosis, and how the American Cancer Society saved his life, twice!

He shares the history of the Pan Ohio Hope Ride – from the first spark of an idea early in Jim’s treatment through its growth as a fundraising dynamo – and explains how anyone can train and ride 328 miles in 4 days, even if they’re not already a cyclist. And, of course, he shares personal anecdotes of hope, love, inspiration, support, and encouragement. 

These days Jim and Kathleen continue to work relentlessly to inspire and encourage cancer patients, caregivers, and supporters through fundraising efforts, advocacy, and speaking engagements.

POHR RIDER SPOTLIGHT: Scott Rini

Scott Rini (Kickin’ the Asphalt Out of Cancer) joined the Pan Ohio Hope Ride just four years ago, but what he lacks in longevity, he makes up for in enthusiasm for the cause. 

“I was looking for another charity ride,” he explains–one with “more miles.” He heard about the Pan Ohio Hope Ride and reached out to staff to learn more. Then he met Brian Bortz, who heads up our new rider outreach and education, and connected with Hallie Baron and Eddie Chadd, a couple of long-term Hope Riders. Not long after, he signed up and hasn’t looked back.

Like so many others, Scott calls Pan Ohio “a family of riders from over the U.S. (who) come together for the same cause.” He’s made friendships and “memories that last.” Asked why he returns to ride the POHR, his answer was simple and sincere: “I ride for those who can’t…I ride for those who need us most. I ride for our future,” he says, and “I ride for HOPE.”

Riding may be Scott’s passion, but fundraising is his purpose. He’s constantly coming up with ways to raise more money to support his POHR fundraising goals, and he’s tenacious about getting others involved and giving. Through his recent “Spring Into Cash and Give Hope” online 50/50 raffle, Scott raised $350 for his Hope Ride. AND, the jackpot winner, a Relay for Life participant, said she’s donating her winnings to the American Cancer Society, too.

Scott’s biggest and most successful personal fundraiser, now in its third year, is his “Trails for Hope: Run. Walk. Ride.” This year’s Trails for Hope is at St. Helena Heritage Park in Canal Fulton on Saturday, May 20.

A single day family event that takes months of planning, it features a 5K walk/fun run and 10, 20, 30 and 50 mile bike routes as well as food, live music and DJs, games, and more.  Some of his Pan Ohio family plan to join Scott’s ride to support his fundraising AND treat it as a training ride ahead of the big (four-day) ride in July.

THANK YOU, SCOTT, for putting your heart into all you do to raise money to support cancer patients. You are an inspiration to us all, and we’re proud to call you a member of the Pan Ohio Family! 

Why I Give: Sue Schmall is Happy to do her part to Fight Cancer

Sue Schmall is a four-day Pan Ohio Hope Ride event volunteer, and an ideal example of positive peer pressure. Back in 2019, her boyfriend Jeff Humble decided to join the Pan Ohio Hope Ride. 

“When Laurie Wolohan, a four-day volunteer, heard this, she begged me to join her and volunteer for the event,” Sue says. As a construction engineer, it can be difficult for Sue to get time off work during the summer.

“I must admit that I was resistant at first because of the time commitment,” she explains. “But Laurie persisted, and I finally agreed. I am so glad I did!  I have met so many wonderful people and made some great friends. I love helping the riders, they work so hard and are so appreciative.”

It is incredibly rewarding to observe the relationships between volunteers, like Sue, and the hope riders – especially those who sign-on for the long haul of all four days. They really do become like family. They are awed and inspired by each other; humble and grateful for the time, energy, and dedication the other gives; and ALL are essential to a successful event. 

Of course, like so many members of the Pan Ohio family, Sue has had too many people in her life who have been affected by cancer, from her grandparents when she was just 2 years old to her cousin who passed away two years ago.

“I am happy to do a very small part in the fight against this terrible disease,” Sue says. “I look forward to seeing everyone again this year!”

Why I Give: Four-Day Volunteer Bill Ohlich Shares His Story

“My mother is a two-time (cancer) survivor, and, outside of my little world I didn’t realize how big of an impact cancer had,” says Bill Ohlrich. He was volunteering with his mom for a Relay for Life event in 2008, “before POHR was a thing in my world,” when he learned that “everyone is affected by cancer in one way or another.” 

Bill joined the Pan Ohio Hope Ride in 2013, not knowing much about it. 

“I was rather new to the Amateur Radio hobby back in 2013,” he explains and was “just getting my feet wet in the emergency communications aspect of it.” 

A friend approached him and asked if he’d like to participate in “a little event” that involved “four days of ‘playing radio’ all across the state.” Bill agreed. Amateur Radio operators (or HAMs) spend time, money, and resources on “training and perfecting our craft, with very little practical application outside of drills and public service events.” What he discovered while “playing radio” was “a world class organization, stunning fundraising amounts, and all for a great cause!”

“The POHR provides an opportunity for me to support a life changing cause, and do something I love at the same time…there’s nothing else like it! We’re truly a family, and every year is a reunion! Each year we invite new friends, reminisce with old ones. We laugh together. We cry together. We celebrate our victories and reflect on our defeats – all together.” 

For eight years Bill has worked in the communications vehicle during the annual Hope Ride. This year he is expanding his involvement by joining the Pan Ohio Executive committee and volunteering as co-lead for the Support and Gear (SAG) team who ride (on four wheels) alongside cyclists. While the leadership role is new to Bill, the goal remains the same: keeping Hope Riders safe during their epic riding and fundraising journey across the state of Ohio. 

We are so thankful for Bill Ohlrich and all the talented, trained volunteers who keep things rolling during our ride. Bill is passionate about supporting the American Cancer Society, and does so to honor his mother Debbie, a two-time breast cancer survivor (pictured with Bill), his aunt Christine who is currently battling cervical cancer, and in memory of his grandmother Dorothy who lost her battle.

If you’d like to contribute your time, talent, and skills to help support this fundraiser, and the Cleveland Hope Lodge through it, please visit the “Get Involved” link on pohr.org for a list of volunteer roles and links for signing up.