In 2007, Los Angeles native David Richman lost his sister June to brain cancer. Since then, he decided to help raise funds for cancer research.
He is currently on a six-week, 5,500 mile bike ride from Los Angeles to New York City called “Cycle of Lives.” He stopped in Jacksonville and First Coast Connect on Tuesday
Along with raising money he is meeting people and writing a book telling the stories of patients, their families and unsung doctors, researchers and caregivers who battle cancer every day.
Richman said most people are good at dealing with certain aspects of cancer — like seeking treatment and changes in their work and personal lives — but not the emotional strain that comes with it.
“That’s the area I’m focusing on. I’m talking to people about the emotional journey of cancer and the hopes other people can learn from them,” he said. “When we go through trauma or when we see others around us that we care about going through trauma we might be better equipped to deal with it.”
Richman has performed other athletic tasks to raise money for cancer research, including a couple of 24-hour runs and a 104-mile run along the Pacific Highway.
His book is due out next spring.
Producer Kevin Meerschaert can be reached at kmeerschaert@wjct.org, 904-358-6334 or on Twitter at @KMeerschaertJax
