Annual Climb to Conquer Cancer raises $8,000 for survivors

SALUDA — Last year at this time, Stephen Howard was receiving chemotherapy cancer treatment at Gibbs Cancer Center, Spartanburg.

On Saturday, at John Cash’s annual Climb to Conquer Cancer bicycle ride, Howard cycled a total of 32 miles (four round trips from host Caro-Mi Dining Room) up Highway 176 almost into Saluda. Each ride up the Saluda Grade gains some 1,000 feet of elevation.

Howard was smiling broadly as he packed his bike back into his car.

All told, 25 riders turned out riding from one to 10 “laps.” Some riders used the climb to lead to other rides farther out in Polk and Henderson counties.

Cash said that, so far, the ride has raised some $8,000 for the Gibbs Survivorship Program.

Cash, a member of the Gibbs board, especially enjoys working with cancer survivors, whom he inspires, and who inspire him. This past ride was his 10th.

Cash thanked Caro-Mi for lending their outer parking lot, and Buck’s Pizza and Rize energy drinks for providing some of their products. He also thanked the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for providing an escort for the first ride up the Saluda Grade, and all the riders and non-riders who made donations.

Cash is still accepting donations for Gibbs. Donors may drop donations at Nature’s Storehouse, 427 S. Trade St., Tryon, or mail them to the store.