Pedaling for PanCAN: In Memory of Dennis Keeler

My dad, Dennis Keeler, passed away in December 2024 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Cycling was a huge part of my dad’s life. He was an avid cyclist who loved the freedom, challenge, and joy that came with being on a bike. And true to who he was, he always rode his passion in service of others. Dad rode the Dempsey Challenge year after year, raising money to support cancer patients and their families long before being diagnosed himself.

This July, I’ll be taking on three of Colorado’s most iconic and demanding cycling events in memory of my dad - all on the bike he loved (a 2017 Trek Domane SL5). Over the course of three weeks, I'll be completing:

Together, these rides add up to hundreds of miles and thousands of feet of climbing - with countless hours in the saddle. Every mile I ride, every foot I climb, and every summit I reach is in memory of my dad and in honor of everyone affected by pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, often diagnosed too late and with far too few treatment options available. Watching my dad go through this disease showed our family just how urgent the need is for better research, earlier detection, and stronger support for patients and families.

I'm riding to raise money for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), an organization dedicated to advancing research, supporting patients, and fighting for better outcomes for everyone impacted by this disease.

If you're able, please consider making a donation. Whether you choose to give per mile, per thousand feet climbed, or simply a one-time gift, every contribution — large or small — supports research, advocacy, and patient services that can make a real difference. Every dollar is given in memory of Dennis and in the hope that fewer families will have to endure what ours did.

Every climb this summer is one my dad would have loved. I hope, together, we can make these miles matter.