Bethesda Cyclists & American Cancer Society Doc Pedal to Fight Cancer

Dr. William Dahut, American Cancer Society (ACS) Chief Scientific Officer not only goes the distance to fight cancer daily by providing strategic direction to both intramural and extramural research for ACS, the largest nonprofit funder of cancer research in the country, but he also is a long-distance cyclist. For the second year in a row, Dr. Dahut and his fellow Kentland’s Cycling Club members of Bethesda, Maryland, are embarking on the four-day, 328-mile Pan Ohio Hope Bike Ride (POHR) from Cleveland to Cincinnati, Ohio this July 25-28, 2024. The ride raises awareness and funds for Cleveland Hope Lodge, one of 31 free American Cancer Society Hope Lodge communities across the U.S. that provide a home-away-from-home at no cost for cancer patients who have to travel far from home to access the best treatment for their cancer.

You can support their pedal power here or see www.pohr.org. Dr. Dahut's fundraising goal is an ambitious $13,000. For some inspiration, read Dr. Dahut’s reflections and the meaning behind the ride here:

How was the ride last year?

“The ride in 2023 far exceeded my expectations,” says Dr. Dahut. “The weather was great. The support was unbelievable, and the countryside was really magical. But what was truly inspirational was the passion that the riders had for the mission. Every single person on this ride was pedaling away to help end cancer as we know it for everyone. For all the cyclists, this ride was intensely personal.”

What did it mean to you?

“I have spent my career involved in cancer research specifically in prostate cancer. I am also a physician who has cared for thousands of patients during my career. For me, it was particularly meaningful to be aligned with the patients and the families impacted by cancer and truly be grateful for the effort that everyone was making to improve outcomes.

“The Pan Ohio Hope Ride is a truly special experience. You can see the emotional and personal aspect that this ride has on all the cyclists. Folks are pedaling away through the Ohio countryside for hours as a way to honor their loved ones with cancer. I found it incredibly inspirational, and that helped me focus my drive to help improve the lives of cancer, patients, and their families.”

What are you hoping for this year?

“We had really great weather last year, and of course that makes a 328-mile ride much more pleasant. I really hope to engage in even a greater way with the riders and help inspire more cyclists to participate and, ultimately, increase the funds raised.”

What are the ride and the people who ride and volunteer like?

“The ride is really of community of volunteers and cyclists committed to improve the lives of cancer patients and families. From day one, you are part of the community with folks, friendly and happy, to help you in any way needed. This is not a race. This is simply a way to honor those most dear to you in a particularly special way.

“I have done multiple charity rides in the past. With some, I am particularly proud of the meters climbed or the miles cycled. This one is special. There is something about riding together with the community of people unified by cancer and cancer research that is truly unique. I feel really truly honored to be part of this community.”