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It’s no secret that the Brent’s Place family tree has deep roots. So deep, in fact, they reach all the way to Texas!
We’re very lucky to have hosted two Texas 4000 cycling teams this summer. These intrepid adventurers raise money for cancer research and cancer support services through an annual 4000-mile journey across America. Their ride takes 70 days to complete, but their impact on the fight against cancer is enduring.
Selected annually from a competitive pool of University of Texas applicants, these young people embark on an 18-month program designed to develop their leadership and teamwork skills. In addition to training for a grueling ride that is as much mental as it is physical, participants are empowered to fundraise $4,500 each, attend weekly team meetings, and volunteer locally. After setting out, the team eventually splits into separate groups – the Sierra, Rockies, Ozarks, and Smoky Mountain – each riding a unique route.
As part of their journey, the riders stop at cancer research and support centers across the country to learn more about how local organizations are contributing to the fight against cancer. At Brent’s Place, Sierra and Rockies riders were among the first visitors welcomed on campus in more than 15 months. Riders met our founders, Donn and Linda Eley, to learn more about our history and toured the facility in small groups led by our Family Support team. Outside, they met some of our resilient pediatric cancer patients and their families. Guided by COVID-19 social distancing and mask protocols, families and riders connected safely through old-fashioned summer fun, including ring toss, hopscotch, and more.
After a beautiful and fun-filled morning in the courtyard, a number of riders shared their own personal connections to cancer and the Brent’s Place mission. This was a moving and poignant way to honor our shared vision while gathered around our Walk of Hope, where past Brent's Place family members are honored. Texas 4000 rider Lexi, whose father passed away from colon cancer in late 2020 and was riding in honor of his adventurous spirit, said, "My dad was in Florida when he got sick and there was nothing like Brent's Place. I wish we'd had something like this for him."
As part of their participation in Texas 4000, the riders also direct grants to many of the cancer research and support centers they visit throughout their journey. Brent’s Place is grateful to have been a Texas 4000 grant recipient since 2013, helping us provide families facing a life-threatening illness with a Safe-Clean home away from home.
We hope you’ll join us in congratulating these riders, who crossed their finish line on Friday, August 13, nearly 10 weeks after they started their adventure. We’re in awe of their spirit, drive, and determination and look forward to hosting next year’s crop of compassionate advocates, students, and cyclists!