Peter's Journey

As many of you know, I was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma to the brain on April 18. For the past five months, I have been receiving aggressive treatments with an extraordinary medical team at Virginia Hospital Center and Georgetown University’s Lombardi Cancer Center. Along with the thoughts and prayers from so many family members and friends, I have gained ground in this battle—but the long fight continues. Today, I humbly ask for your help in mobilizing a whole lot of love in a new endeavor aimed at peace, fulfillment, and well-being.

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Back in April, I relied on a wheelchair just to move through my days. Slowly, I graduated to a walker. Now, after five intense treatments, I am walking with a cane and enjoying much better mobility. At the halfway point of my treatment, the brain lesions appear to be at least temporarily under control, and my balance and strength are steadily improving. My medical team has also stepped up the fight against tumors near my lungs and adrenal glands.

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In June, during one of my early visits, I learned that my oncologists were planning to take part in the BellRinger, a fundraising bike ride for Georgetown University’s Lombardi Cancer Center. I asked them if I might be strong enough to ride in the event this October. They weren’t certain about my chances, but they did encourage my son Henry, who was with me, to join the ride. At first, I felt sadness at the possibility of losing yet another experience I love. But the very next day, Henry registered. He has become a true cheerleader for this cause—and for me. I was deeply proud of him and immediately began to dream of having enough strength to ride beside him.

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As the weeks passed, my instability showed improvement.  My Physical Therapist encouraged me and thought this dream my dream of riding with Henry and four thousand others might come true. I shared my dilemma with a cycling buddy, who asked whether I had considered a “tri-recumbent bike.”That suggestion opened a new door. I began exploring tri-recumbent bikes—three-wheeled, low-to-the-ground cycles that offer stability while still providing the joy and freedom of riding. I searched for an affordable used bike.  For the first time, I could see a way to be part of the event alongside.

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The thought of riding again, albeit differently, lifted my spirits. It reminded me that while cancer has changed my life, it doesn’t have to take away all that I love. Dreams may need adjusting, but they don’t have to disappear. With this new possibility, I’m filled with gratitude—for medical progress, for family support, and for friends who help me imagine new ways forward.

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So, I have registered, along with Henry, to support the BellRinger bike riding rise to raise money for the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center the only National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center in the Washington, D.C. area. It is nationally recognized for cutting-edge research, compassionate patient care, and innovative treatments that bring hope to individuals and families facing cancer. We formed a team - “Peter’s Peddlers.’

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Fighting cancer has been the hardest journey of my life. What has carried me through are the prayers, love, and kindness of family, friends, and even strangers who have reached out with support. Your presence gives me strength each day. Please continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers—and if you feel called, consider a gift to support the fight against cancer, so that others may find hope too.