Cancer has been a cause of anxiety and sorrow but also a source of inspiration in our lives since just before moving to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. As many of you know, Rachel lost her father, John Lockhart, to bladder cancer 19 years ago this coming May 3^rd. Over the past 19 years we’ve heard from many of you - family members, friends, and colleagues - who have had loved one’s face, or have personally fought, cancer. During this same time, through Scot’s employment and our support through Hillman’s Circle of Hope, we’ve had a direct view into the advances being made through research at Hillman Cancer Center.

While not all outcomes are positive, the improvements made possible through research are undeniably remarkable and are what continue to inspire Scot to focus his energy on advancing Hillman’s information technology, and for Rachel to spread hope and support for those facing cancer who we have the blessing of being a part of their lives. Despite these advancements, the fear of cancer remains a daunting reality for many. This is why we’ve chosen to name our Rush to Crush Cancer bike team “Eliminate The Fear” for this year’s big event. It is our hope that you will join us in supporting this cause for the purpose of helping researchers lessen the burden of cancer on humanity.  

2025 Rush to Crush Cancer weekend takes place Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, May 18, and there are a number of ways to get involved – ride, walk, volunteer, and/or fundraise.  The BeSpoke Bash kicks off the series of events on Thursday evening, May 15^th. The opening ceremony, featuring the PNC Mile to Crush Cancer, takes place on Saturday, May 17. This event is free and family friendly and offers an incredible opportunity to gather alongside patients and caregivers to recognize those impacted by cancer and celebrate the UPMC Hillman community. The ride, which consists of four different routes (ranging from 8 miles to 60 miles) and a virtual option, will kick off on Sunday, May 18. The courses are live – learn more about them at this link.

Our ask to you is to participate in one or more of the following:

1. Join our “Eliminate The Fear” bike team and ride with us on Sunday May 18^th. Register for the ride here: Join ”Eliminate The Fear" bike team

1.      We plan to ride the 15-mile “Brian Shanahan” course on E-Bikes! You can rent bikes here: https://unlimitedbiking.com/events/rush-to-crush-cancer/

2.      As a member of our team, you will establish a fundraising goal and can engage your personal network in this event!

2. Not up for a ride or not in Pittsburgh? No problem! Support our bike team “Eliminate the Fear!” by donating: https://fundraisers.rushtocrushcancer.org/teams/eliminate-the-fear
3. Up for the challenge of a longer ride or a competitive funding raise? Create your own bike team: Team Registration Link
4. Want to party and bump elbows with cancer’s worst enemies? Attend the BeSpoke Bash 2025 kickoff event on Thursday May 15^th 6:00 – 10:00pm at the Circuit Ballroom, 5 Hot Metal Street. Purchase Tickets here: https://bespokebash.rsvp/. This is a truly special event with great entertainment and food, inspiring remarks from our key leaders, and the opportunity to connect with Hillman physicians and scientists.

We hope you will consider joining or supporting us in this year’s Rush To Crush Cancer weekend. Whether you choose to ride, volunteer, or donate, your participation will make a difference. Together, we can support the scientists and researchers who are tirelessly working to eliminate the fear of cancer and bring hope to those affected by this disease. Let's come together to make a positive impact and move closer to a future free from the fear of cancer.

With gratitude and hope,

Rachel and Scot Stevens