Going purple for a cause

COEUR d'ALENE - They hope to soon see a tide of bicyclists wearing purple and coasting along the Centennial Trail from Spokane to Coeur d'Alene.

Members of the Inland Empire affiliate of the national Pancreatic Cancer Action Network also hope to see people in purple pedaling and walking around Coeur d'Alene.

The group is hosting "PurpleRide Spoke d'Alene," a bicycle ride, 5K walk and picnic fundraiser on Sept. 10.

The purpose of PurpleRide is to raise funds for research and heighten awareness of pancreatic cancer.

"Pancreatic cancer is one of the few cancers for which the survival rate has not improved substantially for more than 40 years," said Kathy Hlebicek.

Hlebicek lost her own sister to the deadly disease in 2000, and has since been a fierce advocate for those whose lives have been touched by pancreatic cancer.

It is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, Hlebicek said, and the least funded.

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of all cancers and there are no methods for early detection, she said.

The bike fundraiser is the group's second. Last year, 200 people participated, and they raised $22,000.

This year there are four rides to choose from: 56 miles, 36 miles, 14 miles or 4 miles.

The two longer rides begin at Mission Park in Spokane. The shorter rides will remain in Coeur d'Alene, as will the 5K walk. All routes come to an end at Riverstone Park where the group will host a picnic with live entertainment.

People don't have to ride or walk to participate, Hlebicek said. They can pay $10 for adults or $5 for kids to attend the picnic only.

Food will be provided by Fedora Pub and Grille, and South of Rock band will perform.

"You can also sign up for the ride and just be a virtual rider," she said.

The cost to participate is $25, which includes the picnic lunch.

The fees can be paid online at www.purpleride.org (click on "Spoke d'Alene").

Information: 640-6341