The 17 Reasons Ride for Glioblastoma Awareness

The 17 Reasons Ride for Glioblastoma Awareness Join Us Along the Way!

The name is intentional and tied to both awareness and the long road toward a cure. The number 17 represents the many interconnected reasons it takes to move glioblastoma research forward — not a single breakthrough, but sustained effort across science, care, and community.

The 17 reasons are: Commitment, Truth, Continuance, Strength, Hope, Responsibility, Connection, Meaning, Repair, Healing, Memory, Dignity, Resilience, Care, Witness, Endurance, and Presence. Each rider is encouraged to reflect on their reason for riding — a person, a memory, a promise, or simply standing with those affected — while collectively we ride in support of research, awareness, and the search for a cure.

Why This Ride Matters

So much of my journey with my mother’s glioblastoma battle has been one of isolation. Facing this disease, we’ve had to navigate so much alone—the fear, the exhaustion, the uncertainty. This ride is not just about raising money for research. It’s about rebuilding a sense of community, finding strength together, and reminding those affected that they are not alone in this fight.
Eric Hurnyak and Barbara Johnson
Bike marking

How You Can Get Involved

Become a Rider: Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, we welcome you to join for any segment of the ride.

  • Step 1: Click on “Become a Fundraiser” or “Start Fundraising”
  • Step 2: Click on “Create a team”
  • Step 3: Name your team and fill out the required prompts
  • Step 4: Share your team page with your family, friends, and supporters!

Support a Rider: If cycling isn’t your thing, consider supporting a rider through donations or by meeting them at stops to offer encouragement.

  • Step 1: Click on “Become a Fundraiser” or “Start Fundraising”
  • Step 2: Click on “Join a team”
  • Step 3: Search by team name, and donate to the rider of your choice

Donate: Every contribution brings us closer to a cure.

 Let’s come together to honor those affected by glioblastoma and make a meaningful impact. May the Fourth be with you!

** The top 5 fundraisers will receive exclusive GBMRO merchandise and 1 ticket to an upcoming fundraising event of their choice.

 

 

Event Details & Fundraising Goals

  • There is NO charge to enter – this is all about the ride and the cause!
  • We encourage each rider to set a personal fundraising goal of $500 to support glioblastoma research.
  • Our goal is to raise $20K – $30K to support an important cause, and we’re asking each rider to help by sharing and promoting our fundraiser page.
  • Participants can join the ride at any of the designated stops along the route.
  • We’re also seeking corporate sponsors to help cover event costs – if you know a business that might want to support us, let us know!
  • This event will continue to evolve as we develop everything – stay engaged, spread the word, and let’s make this something amazing!

Corporate Sponsorship:

The Glioblastoma Research Organization offers businesses a personalized tax write-off letter for the value of their donation. We are happy to provide more information about the organization and connect with interested sponsors directly. To inquire about corporate sponsorships, please email azul@gbmresearch.org.

Personal Connection:

This cause is deeply personal to me, as my mother is currently battling grade 4 glioblastoma. Organizing this ride is my way of honoring her strength and resilience, and contributing to the search for a cure. Your participation and support mean the world to our family and countless others affected by this disease.

Route & Stops – Jump in Anytime!

We’ve added multiple stops near convenience stores, coffee shops, and restaurants so riders can join at any point and refuel when needed.
Stony Brook Village Center

 

Start: Stony Brook Village Center (Full Ride Crew Starts Here!)
Address: 111 Main St, Stony Brook, NY 11790
Pre-Ride Fuel: Grab a coffee at Crazy Beans Café before we roll out.

Distance to Next Stop: 8 miles 

North Shore Rail Trail Mt. Sinai
Stop 1 (8 miles in): North Shore Rail Trail (Mt. Sinai)
Join us for some smooth, car-free miles!
Trail Access Point: N Shore Rail Trail, Mt Sinai, NY 11766
Quick Refresh: Quick stop at 7-Eleven (Rocky Point) for snacks/drinks.
Distance to Next Stop:  12 miles
North Shore Rail Trail Wading River
Stop 2 (20 miles in): North Shore Rail Trail (Wading River)
Last stretch of the trail before hitting the roads!
Address: 1922-1928 Wading River Manor Rd, Wading River, NY 11792
Nearby Options:
Bagels & Scones – Fresh bagels, coffee, and baked goods.
Quick snacks & hydration.
Distance to Next Stop: 10 miles
On the Docks Aguebogue
Stop 3 (30 miles in): On The Docks (Aquebogue)
Waterfront dining with a variety of meal options!
Address: 177 Meeting House Creek Rd, Aquebogue, NY 11931
Lighthouse Marina and Meetinghouse Creek.
Distance to Next Stop: 10 miles
Love Lane Kitchen, Mattituck
Stop 4 (40 miles in): Mattituck Train Station off Love Lane (Mattituck)
Love Lane Kitchen is near by – a great coffee & breakfast spot in the heart of Mattituck!
Address: 140 Pike St, Mattituck, NY 11952, US
Nearby Options:
Starbucks
7-Eleven
Distance to Final Stop: 15 miles
Andy's Restaurant, Greenport
Finish (55 miles in): Andy’s Restaurant, Greenport
Address: 34 Front St, Greenport, NY 11944
Celebrate with great food & drinks!


About Andy’s Restaurant:
Located in the heart of Greenport at 34 Front Street, Andy’s is a welcoming spot known for its great food, relaxed atmosphere, and strong connection to the community. It’s the perfect place to grab a burger, enjoy fresh local dishes, and catch a game with friends. Andy’s offers both indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery. They also have Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4-6 PM, featuring $6 beer, wine, and burgers. For more info, check out Andy’s website or visit them on Instagram @andysnofo.