Pedaling for a Cure
On October 28, 2017, our own Gary Brodsky, better known as “Kickstand”, was honored by the Chairman/Owner of the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft. Gary has been at the helm of the Patriots Platelet Pedalers for 10 years now. The PPP, as they are known, raise critical dollars for research each year by cycling in the Pan Mass challenge. The Pan Massachusetts Challenge is a weekend long charity bicycle ride to benefit Dana-Farber through the Jimmy Fund. Started in 1980, the Pan Mass Challenge is the largest charity bicycling event in the country, raising over $500 million for cancer research and treatment. Gary was honored for his OUTSTANDING fundraising efforts, raising over 1 million dollars for the Pan Mass Challenge this year.
The History behind the Pedalers
Patriots Platelet Pedalers Logo on the big screen at Gillette.
Ronald E. Burton was an American football player for the Boston Patriots. He was a consensus All-American running back at Northwestern University, and is a member of the Northwestern Hall of Fame and College Football Hall of Fame. Burton was the Boston Patriots’ first-ever American Football League draft choice in 1960. He was the first Patriot to rush for over 100 yards, along with many other firsts. Burton also still holds a Patriot record for his 91-yard touchdown return on a missed field goal in 1962.
In 1999 at 64 years of age, Ron was diagnosed with multiple myeloma (bone cancer) and given one to three years to live.
Ron Burton was treated at DFCI and became great friends with Dr. Ken Anderson. Dr. Anderson is one of the world leading researchers on multiple myeloma. 100% of the funds the Patriots Platelet Pedalers raise through the PMC are earmarked for Dr. Anderson’s continued efforts.
“We ride because we can. We ride for those who can not. We ride because the training rides and the 192 miles on the two days of the Pan Massachusetts Challenge (PMC) are nothing compared to living with or dying from cancer.”
Our Core Value #1 Be Caring Of All Others
BlueGrace is grateful to have such outstanding employees like Gary, who are striving to make a difference in our world and future. At BlueGrace we take as many opportunities as we can to help our communities, both people and animals when they need us most. Thank you Gary for leading the way!