Never forget each day we have is a gift
Dan Ertz says there will always be hope — until there’s a cure for cancer.
As a representative for an insurance company, Ertz came face to face with those stricken by cancer. “Part of my job was to meet these clients,” Ertz said. “That’s when I saw what this disease does to people.”
The experience prompted Ertz to challenge the disease, and he co-chaired the Relay for Life race.
“I thought bikers could really get behind this and do something,” said Ertz, an avid biker. By bikers, he means those motorcycle aficionados who love to cruise the highways and ride the back roads.
The Ride for Life was hatched.
On July 24, the fourth annual Ride for Life drew 360 bikers. They mounted up in Spokane and roared toward Spirit Lake, Idaho.
After a short break, the crew saddled up again for their final destination, Cavanaugh’s Bay at Priest Lake, Idaho. The day was warm, but the fragrance of pine that permeated the area eased the heat of the day, as did the reason for the ride.
Most of us cruise through life forgetting each day is a gift. Even though I learned that lesson 30 years ago when cancer claimed my dad, the passage of time tends to lessen that warning. Then, the notice appeared in my mailbox.
“Your test showed atypical results,” the letter read. “Although we don’t believe this is serious, (always in small print) WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT IMMEDIATELY (always in large print).”
The mind reels, heart pounds, adrenaline pumps and the subject of mortality becomes sharp, as does the gift of life.
The second round of tests was negative, but the quiet tapping on my window was nothing compared to those who have heard cancer’s loud knock on their door.
In fact, cancer has kicked down many a door and for too long. Descriptions of death from cancerous tumors have been in medical writings from 1600 B.C. with references of its existence dating back to 2500 B.C.
In 1913, cancer was brought into the light with the publication of cancer’s warning signs and formation of a nationwide organization to educate the public.
Since then, we’ve been trying to kick some serious carcinoma rump, and those in Saturday’s ride were determined to do just that.
At Cavanaugh’s Bay, the scene was a picturesque biker heaven. Amid the leather and chrome was a plethora of tattooed skin. With the $20 ticket/donation, lunch and raffle tickets were provided.
Several Spokane and Post Falls businesses donated time and prizes to this event.
“All proceeds go to the local American Cancer Society, Cancer Patient Care and Relay for Life,” Ertz told me. Although the last three rides netted a paltry amount after expenses, this year will be different.
“Horizon Credit Union jumped on board,” Ertz said. “Their employees and members donated $8,615.63 alone! I’m averaging this year’s ride will total about $15,000 before expenses.”
Moving through the crowd, I spoke to several people who had friends and families stricken with the disease.
Some were no longer here, others were enduring treatments and suffering its side effects and some were survivors, savoring life and remaining vigilant.
An emotional moment came just before the raffle. Ertz asked all cancer survivors to come forward.
The crowd parted for those quiet heroes who looked cancer in the eye and somehow beat it. As they moved through the throngs, a hint of pride and relief was on their faces. They made it — they’re living proof that cancer can be defeated. Everyone clapped. Voices cheered. Some of the burly men with tattooed biceps wiped away a few tears.
“There isn’t a person here who hasn’t been hit by cancer,” Ertz said. “When I ask how many have been touched by cancer either personally, family or friends, 99 percent raise their hands. This disease has to be stopped.”
So here’s your reminder — life is a gift. Get in for those tests. Summon up the courage to return for follow-up tests.
Then mark your calendar for next July to join the Ride for Life group on their quest to end cancer’s grip or the Relay for Life run as they stride toward the finish line for a cure.