Courage Ride

Haley Gallagher never expected a routine eye exam to uncover something life-changing.

That visit led to a diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma and a long, challenging road through treatment and recovery.

Today, Haley is cancer-free and sharing her story out of deep gratitude for the care and support that carried her through.

By supporting the Courage Ride, you’re helping fund sarcoma cancer research that makes more stories like Haley’s possible. 🎗️

Stories of Courage: Haley Gallagher — Courage Ride Haley Gallagher’s Ewing sarcoma was discovered during a routine eye exam. Follow her journey through treatment, recovery, and becoming cancer-free.

Courage Ride’s board brings together people from many different backgrounds, each connected by a shared commitment to advancing sarcoma research. One of those individuals is Payton Pekarek.

Payton is an osteosarcoma survivor and a powerful reminder of why Courage Ride matters.

What began as a persistent ache in her knee during her freshman year of college turned into a life-changing diagnosis after months of uncertainty, testing, and two surgeries.

In 2022, Payton began an intensive chemotherapy journey at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, all while making the incredibly difficult decision to continue her college coursework.

Through it all, Payton leaned on positivity, determination, and the support of her care team. She completed treatment in November 2022, returned to school, and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa.

Now, she’s continuing her journey as a graduate student in Child Life at the University of Iowa—inspired by her own experience to help others facing similar challenges—and is a Child Life Intern at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut.

Payton continues to share her passion for Courage Ride, first as our 2024 Patient Honoree, and now as a board member.

Stories like Payton’s are at the heart of Courage Ride. Every dollar raised helps fund critical sarcoma research right here at UIHC, where patients and families are navigating their own journeys.

Thank you, Payton!