I got up bright and early, drove to Highland High School, and spent my morning running in circles (because I don't know how to stand still with a camera 🤣), taking pictures, cheering each rider, and soaking in an atmosphere that I honestly cannot put into words. The emotions I experienced that Sunday were unlike anything I could have imagined.

There were smiles, laughter, exhaustion, hugs, and moments that brought tears to my eyes. Every single rider had a story, a reason, a WHY. Some were riding for someone they love, some in memory of someone they lost, and others because they know that cancer is a battle none of us should have to fight. To every man and woman who climbed onto a bicycle that weekend and rode mile after mile to raise money for cancer research, YOU ARE HEROES. 💚

As someone who works at The James and a cancer survivor, I know firsthand how important this mission is. The funds raised through Pelotonia support cancer research, bringing us closer to better treatments, breakthroughs, and, one day, a world without cancer. That mission is incredibly personal to me. I feel forever grateful and blessed that I was able to capture these amazing individuals as they rode into the Highland High School stop and headed back out to continue their journeys.

But something else touched my heart just as deeply.

THE VOLUNTEERS. ❤️

The people making sandwiches, providing first aid, fixing bicycles, filling water bottles, offering words of encouragement, sharing conversations, and cheering for EVERY SINGLE RIDER as though they were crossing the finish line.

These individuals were absolutely incredible. They weren't there for recognition or applause. They were there because they cared. Because they believed in the mission. Because they wanted to make a difference. And standing alongside them reminded me that you don't have to ride a bicycle to be part of something that changes lives. Sometimes all it takes is a sandwich, a smile, a helping hand, a cheer from the sidelines, or even someone behind a camera capturing a moment that deserves to be remembered.

If you have never volunteered for Pelotonia or contributed to this incredible cause, I cannot encourage you enough to consider it. I promise you, the experience will leave an imprint on your heart.

I went there to take pictures. I left with so much more. 💚

And one thing I know for certain is that this will not be my last Pelotonia. You can count on finding me somewhere along that route, camera in hand, cheering on these extraordinary people who are pedaling toward a future where cancer no longer steals the people we love.

To the riders, volunteers, organizers, and everyone who makes Pelotonia possible, THANK YOU. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU.

💚 ONE GOAL. END CANCER. 💚

Here are my pictures from Pelotonia 2026