FEATURED FIGHTERS
Our Featured Fighters are members of the Padres Pedal family for whom the fight with cancer is personal. In a community made up of cancer fighters, we would like to take the opportunity to feature those who inspire us. From doctors and researchers to daughters, fathers and teachers, follow as we share the stories that motivate us to accelerate cures for cancer
Some people choose to give 100%, for others it’s their only choice. We're behind you.
Featured Fighter: Tyler and Natasha Wagner
Type of Cancer: T-cell leukemia lymphoma
Diagnosed at 29 with T-cell leukemia lymphoma, a young family finds new appreciation for the everyday little things and gratitude for every day together. Tyler was treated at Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego.
Featured Fighter: Saundra Pelletier, Evofem Biosciences & Dr. Shatsky, UCSD Health
Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer
“Cancer is as unique as your own DNA. Treating everyone the same can’t be right if every single tumor is unique.” – Dr. Rebecca Shatksy. Every year over 40,000 women die of breast cancer. Saundra Pelletier, CEO of Evofem Biosciences, was diagnosed in early August 2018 and on August 28 began treatment by Dr. Rebecca Shatksy. “What I wanted when I got my diagnosis was to get my life back.”
Featured Fighter: SuperKid Zainab & the Khan Family
Type of Cancer: Leukemia
Zainab Khan was diagnosed with Leukemia and began chemotherapy treatments at Rady Children’s Hospital – San Diego immediately. Because of Zainab’s absolute neutrophil count, she remained in the hospital for 31 days straight.
Featured Fighter: Kellie Sullivan
Type of Cancer: Leukemia
“I believe in a world without cancer! After this past year’s Padres Pedal event, I walked away with a burning desire to become involved on a much deeper level with the organization! I was incredibly inspired by the story of Saundra Pelletier as well as the story of so many other survivors!! My heart wanted so desperately to do more! Little did I know that my desire to deepen my level of involvement would mean I would also be touched by cancer.
My diagnosis of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma has been a tough pill to swallow, but i know full well I am strong and will 100% leap into the depths of this journey with the love and support of my framily!”
Featured Fighter: Duncan Thomas
Type of Cancer: Leukemia
Duncan was given 7-12 months to live after learning his cancer had metastasized to his lungs and liver. Thankfully, he became one of the first patients to pilot a unique drug combination in his battle. In the middle of the clinical trial with Dr. Greg Daniels of Moores Cancer Center, the FDA fast tracked approval, and Duncan’s success had a part in bringing that treatment to more people who could survive and thrive after a terminal diagnosis.