Coast Guard veteran takes on cycling challenge for cancer research

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Coast Guard Chief Boatswain’s Mate Kyle Downs is no stranger to intense training, but his current challenge — a grueling cycling event — has tested his endurance in new ways.

Inspired by his youngest brother Corey’s fight against cancer, Downs is participating in the Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer race, an annual event organized by Bristol Myers Squibb.

“Seeing Corey and other cancer patients fight every day motivates me to keep pushing forward,” Downs said. “Through this journey, I’ve met many individuals whose lives have been touched by cancer. It inspires me to continue the fight, advocating for better research and supporting those who are battling this disease.”

In September, Downs will join 126 fellow Bristol Myers Squibb colleagues in a 3,000 mile relay beginning in Cannon Beach, OR and ending in Long Branch, NJ, while raising funds for the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

“Everybody knows somebody impacted by cancer,” Downs said. “I wanted to get involved with a cause that could help future people that are fighting cancer, those we’ve lost to cancer, and the families that are involved in it.”

For every dollar the cyclists raise, Bristol Myers Squibb will match up to $500,000. The ultimate goal is to raise $1 million for the V Foundation. To donate or learn more about the ride, visit www.cancerbikeride.org .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.