Cycle for Life raises funding for blood cancer research

In honor of former brother Taylor Trudeau, Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity raised money for blood cancer research during a stationary cycling marathon Saturday.

The Taylor Trudeau Cycle for Life was created in 2008 after Trudeau passed away after a yearlong battle with leukemia, said Brian Bolling, philanthropy chairman of Pi Kappa Alpha.

The event was founded by Trudeau’s parents at the University of New Hampshire shortly after his death and has grown during the last few years.

Currently, 28 Pi Kappa Alpha chapters across the country sponsored Cycle for Life events, and all of the proceeds benefit leukemia, lymphoma and melanoma research, Bolling said.

This was the first year the IU chapter has sponsored the event, which was in the Student Recreational Sports Center CycleFit studio.

Cyclists paid $10 for 30-minute sessions during the marathon, which lasted from noon to 8 p.m.

Marcus Goldman, president of Pi Kappa Alpha, said he hopes Cycle for Life is something that continues to grow each year.

“I hope that the Cycle for Life raises awareness for leukemia and other blood cancers and that we can get the word out for an even greater turnout next year,” Goldman said.

Donations can be made directly to the Taylor Trudeau Foundation at www.taylorcycleforlife.org/donations.