PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A group based in Philadelphia is raising money to help relieve some of life’s pressures for people who are going through treatment to fight lung cancer.
Years ago, John Matthews made a promise to his mother, Kathleen, that he would do everything he could to raise awareness and money in the fight against lung cancer.
“When Mom was real sick, I simply said, ‘I'm going to do something for lung cancer patients,’” Matthews said. “I'd experienced so many emotions going from being shocked to incredibly sad to angry.”
Sometimes great causes are born out of tragic losses. Kathleen lost her 9-month battle with lung cancer. And Matthews used that emotional energy as fuel to fulfill his promise.
In 2017 he started the nonprofit Ride Hard Breathe Easy. With long-distance bike rides, the group raises money to help lung cancer patients pay for some of the most basic needs, such as transportation to appointments, a new wig, groceries, rent and utility bills. In addition to assisting patients, the nonprofit promotes screenings and early detection, and works to end stigma associated with the disease.
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“I've had the chance to find my purpose in life,” Matthews said.
“It's been amazing to go from the very beginning, with an idea to help lung cancer patients, and to see it morph into something special.”
That “something special” is the collaboration and support of survivors, loved ones and medical professionals.
“We're working on a project to increase lung cancer screening awareness and education within underserved populations in Philadelphia,” said Dr. Cherie Erkmen, a Temple researcher who serves on Ride Hard Breathe Easy’s board.
Lung cancer kills more people than breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer combined — but among all the cancers, doctors and researchers working toward its elimination see the least amount of funding.
Since its founding, the group has raised $550,000. Ride Hard Breathe Easy is planning a 650-mile bike-riding event in September to raise even more.