An army of tutu-wearing community members gathered in Two Harbors on Sunday to support the fight against childhood cancer. The Grit and Gratitude bike rides — a 23-mile and a 50-mile ride — celebrate Lily Buchholz-Leibfried’s journey through treatment and the joy she continues to bring to those around her.
“Today’s event is called ‘Grit and Gratitude’ and is a bike ride to raise money for childhood cancer. This is the fourth year we’ve hosted this event and it was inspired by Lily’s experience with cancer. She has been in recovery for five years now from stage 4 hepatoblastoma,” said Heather Buchholz-Leibfried, Lily’s mother.
Hepatoblastoma is a rare form of liver cancer and Lily was diagnosed at 18 months old. In April 2019, when Lily’s treatment was complete, Heather began planning the first Grits and Gratitude bike ride.
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“We’re raising money, 50 percent of which goes to pediatric cancer research and 50 percent to our charities that support families undergoing treatment. So it’s a big day,” said Buchholz-Leibfried.
Nearly two hundred riders and volunteers took part in the first ride and this number continues to grow.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Every time I drive into the bike shop and see everyone unloading in the parking lots and see all the energy. And it was really successful,” said Buchholz-Leibfried.
The community came together not only to participate in the ride, but also to donate and help run the event.
“The support from volunteers is incredible. In total, over 50 people are involved from start to finish, from t-shirt design to 25 people working at our food stands and registration on the day itself. So it’s amazing how much happens behind the scenes. They’re all volunteers,” said Buchholz-Leibfried.
And as Lily grows, the community continues to support people like her, one tutu at a time.
“I would like to thank everyone who came, who volunteered and who rode along. Our website is open for donations and we plan to be there again next year,” said Buchholz-Leibfried.
To donate to the cause, go to Grit and Gratitude 2024 | MyEvent
