Ride for Roswell raises $2 million

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - More than 8,000 bikers put the pedal to the metal for the annual Ride for Roswell.

The popular cycling event raises money for Roswell Park and unites the western New York Community in its fight against cancer.

For some, it was a ride in remembrance of a loved one.

"Team Chuck is in remembrance of my father my father passed away, it will be two years ago this July of stomach cancer," said Kimberly Ellerington.

"Today a bunch of us out here Riding for Roswell in memory of our good friend Jackie Hersh," said Casey Komm.

For others, it was a ride of survivorship.

"I was first diagnosed with cancer when I was pregnant with my son, so it was a very difficult time. And, thanks to Roswell, which was literally down my street and they were able to get me through perfectly healthy," said Mary Rose McDermott.

But regardless of the reason, it was a day thousands came together to ride in hope of finding a cure.

The $2 million raised this year will go toward research and quality of life programs. And despite the tough economy, people did not scale back in their generosity to this great cause.

"We're actually up 15% and considering the economy, that is really impressive," said Terry Bourgeois, Ride for Roswell Co-chair.

A staggering 1 in 3 of us will have some sort of personal experience with cancer, making events like the ride for Roswell indispensable.

Every rider. Every supporter. Each person touched by cancer, striving to bring us one step closer to a cure.