Great Lakes 2025 ... Pre-ride

The original of this post was made on FaceBook on July 15, 2025.

It is hard to imagine that my little warrior, Dray, age 7, has been battling cancer for over 5-years now. What a roller coaster it has been: different chemo drugs, countless trips to Memphis for scans, changing treatments as the diagnosis shift from good to bad to good. The positive attitude that Dray, his mom, dad and big brother have maintained throughout is simply inspiring. And I am over-the-top happy that his latest chemo seems to be doing its job, and Dray is enjoying life.

In tribute to Dray and all the kids fighting life-threatening ailments, the Ride 4 Dray is ready to roll on another epic journey. This year I am checking off another bucket-list item, riding a ring around all 5 of the Great Lakes. Barring bad weather or mechanical issues, the 5,000-mile route should take 28 - 30 days. Departing Peoria early Monday morning July 21 and returning the third week of August.

My plan is to post experiences from the road and share a highlight about Dray. Consider today's post a pre-ride teaser: my Great Lakes ride map, Dray go-carting in Door County, playing little league baseball and taking in a Cubs v Cardinals game with Papa.

If you are looking for a good cause to support, please consider donating to the Ride 4 Dray! All funds raised by the Ride 4 Dray are passed onto St Jude, OSF HealthCare Foundation and the National Brain Tumor Society. https://www.ride4dray.org/donate

Stay tuned, more to come soon...

Papa's Route