Ironman For Riley Pearl's Fearless Cancer Fight
Donation protected
On October 13, 2019, I will be competing in Ironman Louisville. This race consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2 mile run completed consecutively. Let’s be honest, competing in an Ironman is an inherently truly selfish venture. The process of pushing the body to its limit and challenging oneself to complete the 18-hour grueling race are all deeply individual and self-centered.
However, I want to use this opportunity as a platform to raise funds for a far greater purpose than completing an Ironman.
Meet 21 year old Riley Pearl, a senior this Fall at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), President of her sorority Sigma Kappa, Walled Lake Northern HS alumni (Class of 2016), a natural born leader, an immensely kind & giving soul for so young and cherished by so many. On January 11, 2019, doctors found a small tumor in Riley’s chest following a checkup over Christmas break. The source was a birthmark she has had her entire life. Following a biopsy, Riley was diagnosed with middle-late Stage 3 Advanced Melanoma cancer that has spread into her lymphatic system. Following a 2nd surgery in March that removed 18 lymph nodes, Riley began immunotherapy on May 8 (with a longer term treatment plan still TBD). Riley recently received more disappointing news that she has tested BRAF gene mutation positive which means an endless fight with cancer reoccurring for the rest of her life.
Meet Colleen McDonald, Riley’s Mom and my dear friend since high school. Colleen is equally cherished and loved by legions. Full of faith, grit and gusto, she is Riley’s constant caregiver in her fight and has vowed to do whatever is necessary to care and protect Riley.
The medical bills and expenses are adding up and will continue to grow with lots more to come. Any amount of donation is greatly appreciated. I will vow to make it across that finish line one way or another if you can help Riley and her family through this unexpected hardship and endless fight.
“Cancer is relentless, but so is God’s love, and so am I.” ~ Riley Pearl
“We got to kick cancer’s A$$. Steady and strong wins the race. It’s a marathon now, not a sprint unfortunately.” ~ Colleen McDonald
However, I want to use this opportunity as a platform to raise funds for a far greater purpose than completing an Ironman.
Meet 21 year old Riley Pearl, a senior this Fall at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), President of her sorority Sigma Kappa, Walled Lake Northern HS alumni (Class of 2016), a natural born leader, an immensely kind & giving soul for so young and cherished by so many. On January 11, 2019, doctors found a small tumor in Riley’s chest following a checkup over Christmas break. The source was a birthmark she has had her entire life. Following a biopsy, Riley was diagnosed with middle-late Stage 3 Advanced Melanoma cancer that has spread into her lymphatic system. Following a 2nd surgery in March that removed 18 lymph nodes, Riley began immunotherapy on May 8 (with a longer term treatment plan still TBD). Riley recently received more disappointing news that she has tested BRAF gene mutation positive which means an endless fight with cancer reoccurring for the rest of her life.
Meet Colleen McDonald, Riley’s Mom and my dear friend since high school. Colleen is equally cherished and loved by legions. Full of faith, grit and gusto, she is Riley’s constant caregiver in her fight and has vowed to do whatever is necessary to care and protect Riley.
The medical bills and expenses are adding up and will continue to grow with lots more to come. Any amount of donation is greatly appreciated. I will vow to make it across that finish line one way or another if you can help Riley and her family through this unexpected hardship and endless fight.
“Cancer is relentless, but so is God’s love, and so am I.” ~ Riley Pearl
“We got to kick cancer’s A$$. Steady and strong wins the race. It’s a marathon now, not a sprint unfortunately.” ~ Colleen McDonald
Organizer and beneficiary
Loriann Zimmer Fill
Organizer
White Lake Township, MI
Riley Pearl
Beneficiary