Electric Bike Journey to Raise Awareness for Childhood Cancer

News Summary

Paul Zuanich, a retired longshoreman, is embarking on a 1,750-mile electric bike ride along the West Coast to raise funds for childhood cancer research. This initiative, part of the ILWU’s support for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, aims to raise approximately $20,000. Zuanich’s journey starts at the U.S.-Canada border and concludes at the ILWU’s Bloody Thursday Memorial Picnic, highlighting the labor community’s commitment to this important cause.

Huntington Beach, California – Paul Zuanich, a 65-year-old retired longshoreman, is undertaking a significant endeavor to raise awareness for childhood cancer by embarking on a 1,750-mile electric bike journey. Starting on June 4, this 38-day ride is expected to conclude on July 5 in San Pedro, California. The route spans every West Coast port managed by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), an organization Zuanich has been a part of during his long career.

This initiative is part of the ILWU’s annual campaign in support of the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a charity committed to funding childhood cancer research. Zuanich aims to raise approximately $20,000 for the foundation, which has garnered more than $300 million since its establishment. Since 2012, the ILWU has raised over $1.3 million for the charity, showcasing its long-standing commitment to the cause.

In addition to raising funds, the bike ride serves to commemorate Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who at the age of four, began raising money for cancer research with her first lemonade stand. Though she passed away at the young age of eight in 2004, her legacy continues to inspire fundraising efforts worldwide.

Beginning his journey at Peace Park near the U.S.-Canada border, Zuanich is covering approximately 100 miles a day as he rides down the coast. Each day on the bike not only serves as a means for fundraising but also allows Zuanich to reflect on the stories of cancer survivors and the gratitude he feels for the opportunity to contribute to this important cause.

Originally intended for 2019, Zuanich’s ride was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s journey particularly meaningful. He plans to arrive in the South Bay on July 4, coinciding with the Independence Day celebrations. His final destination will be at the ILWU’s Bloody Thursday Memorial Picnic, which honors the workers lost during the 1934 waterfront strikes.

Support from the labor community is significant in this endeavor. Dan Imbagliazzo, a delegate from ILWU Local 13, emphasized that the ride is a way for union members to come together and make a positive impact in the lives of those affected by childhood cancer. Collaboration with local industry companies has been a crucial aspect of the initiative, with notable support including a $10,000 donation from Stephen Hennessey, the incoming President of the Pacific Maritime Association.

As part of the campaign, various fundraisers and community events are planned, including beach cleanups aimed at encouraging participation from beachgoers during the bustling July 4th holiday weekend. Through these efforts, Zuanich expresses his mission not only to raise money for cancer research but also to showcase the goodness of the labor community and foster connections with individuals he encounters along the route.

In summary, Paul Zuanich’s electric bike ride represents both a personal commitment to the fight against childhood cancer and a broader movement within the labor community to support vital research. With a goal to raise substantial funds and increase awareness, Zuanich is making strides toward a greater cause, underscoring the importance of unity in the face of adversity.

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Additional Resources

• Daily Breeze: Huntington Beach Resident Bike Rides 1,750 Miles to Help Dockworker Union Fight Childhood Cancer
• Orange County Register: Big Waves, Big Crowds Expected at Area Beaches for the Fourth of July Weekend
• Snohomish County Tribune: Longshoreman on 1,750-Mile Bike Ride Fundraiser for Childhood Cancer Stops in Everett
• Wikipedia: Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
• Los Angeles Times: Miracles for Kids Hits the Waves for Summer