If you were to ask anyone who knew our founder, Sunny Halperin, to describe her, the first thing they would do is smile. Sunny was loving, thoughtful, generous and full of life. She was a trailblazer, an innovator, and a role model. She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend, a colleague, and a leader.
And Sunny was a fighter.
In August 2014, Sunny was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic cancer. Although she fought a tough battle, this January marks the third anniversary of her passing. To keep his mother’s legacy of generosity alive, our President and Chief Operating Officer Gary Halperin is joining the battle against rare cancers by teaming up with Cycle for Survival.
Founded in 2007, Cycle for Survival is an indoor team cycling event, providing survivors and supporters with an opportunity to raise awareness and money for rare cancer research. Created in partnership with Equinox Fitness, Cycle for Survival set out to help change and improve the way cancer is diagnosed and treated – especially for those diagnosed with rare cancers like pancreatic, pediatric and brain cancer.
To date, they’ve raised $180 million, with 100% of the funds going directly to Memorial Sloan Kettering. They’ve contributed to over 100 clinical trials and research studies, some of which have already lead to new and better treatments.
“I think about my mom every day,” Gary says, “and I think of the thousands of people who will receive the same diagnosis. I’m moved to do something to help.”
On Sunday, March 3, Gary will ride with the Tiny Terror’s Squad team in his mother’s memory. If you’d like to join the fight against rare cancers and help keep Sunny’s legacy alive, you can donate to their team here.
To those who generously join the cause, Gary shares his sincere gratitude. “Thanks for being on my team. Let’s crush this thing!”
