Riding 3,600+ miles for lung cancer patients

From May 20 to July 6, Jack Owens will ride his bicycle from San Francisco, CA to Ocean City, NJ with a goal of raising $100,000 for Ride Hard Breathe Easy. The ride will take him through the University of Notre Dame, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, Jefferson Health, and more over the course of 47 days. 

Jack’s will cycle over 3,600 miles and 130,000 feet of elevation, and will be documented across RHBE’s social media pages. On June 22, all are invited to support Jack by riding virtually as he arrives at Notre Dame!

How can you get involved?

  • Make a donation
  • Dedicate a ride to someone you love
  • Cheer on Jack!
  • Follow Jack’s daily adventures on Instagram
  • Ride on June 22 where you are
  • Join Jack on Saturday, July 12th for a Celebration Ride on the Schuylkill River Trail

Why am I riding?

With the help of family and friends, I will bike across the United States to raise awareness and funds for lung cancer patients and their families.

I have been connected to this cause for most of my life. In December 2011, my Grandmom, Kathleen Matthews, passed away after a 9-month fight with lung cancer. A proud mother of six and grandmother of nineteen, Grandmom had a special way of making each of us feel like her favorite. From the moment of her diagnosis, my family dove into learning about lung cancer to help her fight. Although we lost her, our work in this cause has continued ever since.

Since her passing, I’ve watched family and friends advocate for lung cancer awareness, inspired especially by my Grandpop’s relentless efforts–he taught me that one person’s devotion can move many. Though he passed away in 2016, his spirit and inspiration live on.

In 2017, my uncle, John “Jack” Matthews, cycled across the country, raising money for the GO2 Foundation. Two years later, he founded Ride Hard Breathe Easy to support lung cancer patients and caregivers. Watching his work up close has deepened my passion and commitment to this cause.

Throughout my life, I’ve been lucky to belong to strong, supportive communities. I want to build the same kind of support for lung cancer patients and families who may not have it. With the encouragement of those around me, I ride to make a real difference for everyone impacted by lung cancer.

Cheer on Jack!

Uncle Jack
What you are doing matters to so many people. Have a great ride and enjoy the immense beauty of tis country. Grandmom and Grandpop are watching you with such pride!
Beth Solomon
I can't believe you are about to embark on your big ride. I know that helping lung cancer patients and their families in honor of your Grandmom is what is driving you to go beyond your comfort zone! Thank you for having the courage and determination to ride for so many impacted by this terrible disease! Love, Aunt Beth
Karen Pitassi
In awe of what you are doing! Looking forward to cheering you on in person. See you in Utah!
Mom
It's almost "Go Time" and I could not be more proud of all the work you have put into this ride. I am excited to follow your incredible journey and cannot wait to hug you when you finish. Thank you for all you are doing in memory of Grandmom and all who have lost their battle with lung cancer. I love you!! xoxoxoxo
Robyn O'Brien
Thank you for such a beautiful and brave act of love to raise awareness!

Dedicate a day to someone you love!

Jack’s 47-day journey across the United States begins on May 20th in San Francisco. He’s taking on this ride to raise awareness and funds for those affected by lung cancer.

Just like we did in 2017, Jack will dedicate each day of his cross-country ride to someone impacted by this disease. Whether it’s in honor of or in memory of a loved one, you’re invited to share their name and story using the form below.

On the left, you’ll see that Day 1 is dedicated to Jack’s grandmother, who lost her life to lung cancer in 2011. He’ll ride more than 80 miles that day in her memory.

Who can we ride for in your life?

Ride Hard

Breathe Easy

Our mission is to alleviate the suffering of lung cancer patients and their caregivers by raising awareness, supporting early detection, assisting patients, and working to end the stigma associated with the disease.​

Ride Hard Breathe Easy

Our mission is to alleviate the suffering of lung cancer patients and their caregivers by raising awareness, supporting early detection, assisting patients, and working to end the stigma associated with the disease.​

Join one of our events​

We have in-person and virtual events throughout the year.  We hope you join us!

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Join over a dozen organizations supporting Ride Hard Breathe Easy.

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