About the Book

What does a 28 year-old Marine officer serving active duty in the War In Iraq do when he receives word that his father has terminal cancer?  He combines a life goal of riding his bicycle across the United States, coast to coast, with a fundraising effort to benefit cancer research and raise awareness.  He unites with four others – three of whom are in their 60’s and one in his early 40’s and sets out to cover 3,400 miles of challenging terrain in 31 days. 

This is a story about 5 men who pursue a mission with good will, faith, and high hopes.  Along the way, they experience intense physical pain, a mental challenge unlike anything they’ve ever experienced, and more adversity than they bargained for.  These pages will take you on the ride with this diverse group and you’ll share in their experiences as they come to better understand who they are as individuals, their personal limits, and what really matters in life.  Come share in their journey as they set out to inspire people, but end up being inspired by the many kind people they met along the way.

About the Author

John Patrick Budd:  J.P., 28 years old at the time of the ride, was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., but grew up in Delaware. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a former Marine. In 2003, J.P.’s father developed terminal cancer. The idea to travel from coast to coast on a bicycle was a goal of his since he graduated from college. While stationed overseas in the Marine Corps, he thought of ways in which he could help his and other families in their struggle to beat cancer. 

Tim O’Neill:  Tim, 62 years old at the time of the ride, was diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer in 1992. He underwent chemotherapy, massive radiation, and surgery. He beat cancer by concentrating on his family and his goals of hiking in Glacier National Park and along the Appalachian Trail. After beating cancer, he hiked the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia. Last year, his daughter-in-law was diagnosed with terminal cancer and died only a month prior to his coast-to-coast ride. His long struggle with cancer made him want to do something to help others, and he continues to be involved in various cancer causes.

Larry Peart: Larry, 66 years old at the time of the ride, is a native of Wilmington, Del., and a graduate of Salesianum High School and the University of Delaware. He and his wife, Mary Ann, have a son, Patrick; a daughter, Erin; and three grandchildren. Larry’s mother died of cancer at age 52. He began cycling with Ray and Tim in 2001. Larry and Mary Ann, both cycling enthusiasts, are members of the White Clay Bicycle Club and the Sussex Cyclists.

Rob Sorantino: Rob, 41 years old at the time of the ride, grew up in New Jersey, then moved to Delaware as a teenager. He is a graduate of the University of Delaware. He and his wife, Terri, have two daughters, Anna and Lauren. Rob stays physically active exercising each day and periodically participating in triathlons and swim meets. He took up biking at age 40 when he decided to try completing a triathlon.