Trisha Kallis
Trisha is a sophomore at Goucher College. In the summer of 2012 she is riding with a group of college students on a 70 day, 4000+ mile bike ride from Baltimore to Portland.
What is your connection with the cancer community?
I've had too many close family members and close friends battle cancer. My mom's mom passed away when I was about seven and I remember seeing the look on my mother's face. She couldn't even tell us what happened. My father did and as he said the words I was only looking at my mother. She was so upset, crying uncontrollably. I remember never wanting to see her like that again, I remember saying to myself that I would do everything I could to never see her cry like that. My dad's sister was battling cancer for longer than I can remember. She passed away when I was fifteen, my father was in the hospital the day she died. I had never seen him cry in my entire life, but when he found out, he was hysterical. I felt so helpless. I felt like there was something I could have done. Now I know that all of the family members and friends that I have lost are in a better place and they are no longer suffering. But, I really want to be a part of helping future generations so they never have to go through this experience.
Why are you riding the 4K for Cancer?
I have an amazing family who has been through a lot of hard times and I want to do this for them. Specifically, my aunt. She was such an incredible and independent woman. She created her own business and raised three children. She was the best aunt, grandmother, sister and sister-in-law any of us could ask for. She was always looking out for everyone else. Especially my father. They were best friends. They spent everyday together at work and taught me life lessons I will never forget. This ride is for them because it will push me to do my best and giving up isn't an option. I'm so excited to hear other's stories and share my family's on this incredible 70 day trip.
