The Anderson family has been involved in the cycling event Clip In 4 the Cure since its inception in 2022.
It’s a way the family can help raise funds for research initiatives at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.
During the first year, Emma and David Anderson cycled as their sons, Henry and Leo, watched from the sidelines.
In 2023 both boys hopped on bikes to pitch in to raise money.
“I want to help kids with cancer,” said Henry, 9. “And eat a lot of snacks.”
“I love to bike,” interjected Leo, 5, who learned to ride a two-wheeler this summer and is looking forward to joining his brother and other children in the event’s Kids’ Corner.
This year, the family will join about 400 participants at the high-energy event being held at Geodis Park on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 8 a.m. to noon. Led by a Nashville spin instructor, the event will feature live DJs, vendors, giveaways and entertainment.
“The boys are really excited about doing this,” said Emma Anderson. “They have seen me volunteer and fundraise for this, so they know what it’s all about. It’s such a fun event, and they love the music, fun activities and yes, the snacks,” she said.
For Anderson, the commitment to help raise money for research and care at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center is a personal one.
Not long ago, she learned that she carries the genetic mutation that increases her risk for developing certain malignancies like breast and ovarian cancers. She chose to undergo a risk-reducing bilateral mastectomy.
“I was very impressed with my care at Vanderbilt,” said Anderson. “All is going very well with my recovery, and I’ve returned to a very active lifestyle and reduced my risk thanks to the talented providers and staff I worked with.
“Our family loves biking, and this was a great opportunity to get involved for a good cause,” she said. “It’s really a fun event and has been very successful. We have had a blast attending and participating.
“I just love seeing everybody come out and support a cause that I really believe in. As much as it’s a fundraiser, it’s also a celebration of the good work Vanderbilt does.”
According to the event organizer, there are still bikes available for both adults and children, ages 5 and older.
“People can sign up right up to when the event starts,” said Casey Holden, director of Community Development at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “We have surpassed $250,000 raised this year and we are hoping to get as close to $300,000 as possible.
“Last year’s funds helped propel cutting-edge research around both immunotherapy and metastatic prostate cancer.”
To register, form a team of four and visit ClipIn4theCure.org. Each team is encouraged to fundraise a minimum of $400 to reserve their bikes.