Just hearing the word cancer in relation to a loved one strikes fear into our hearts, but especially so when it relates to a child.

According to the American Cancer Society, over 10,000 children under the age of 15 were diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. last year. And while major treatment advances have increased survival rates, we still have a long way to go.

Prince Edward County resident Taikein Cooper is stepping up and doing his part to help fight this dreaded disease. More than just talk, Cooper is putting his feet to the pedals and plans to ride 500 miles on his bicycle this month as part of the Great Cycle Challenge.

Cooper’s goal was to raise $500 for pediatric cancer research. When The Herald spoke to him Wednesday, he had raised more than $800 and was working on raising another $500 for the U.Va. Children’s Hospital.

I commend Cooper’s efforts and dedication in raising funds and awareness for this dreaded disease.

You too can make a difference and support Cooper’s efforts for pediatric cancer research from the comfort of your living room chair by visiting greatcyclechallenge.com/Riders/TaikeinCooper.

Betty Ramsey is publisher of The Farmville Herald and Farmville Newsmedia LLC. Her email address is Betty.Ramsey@FarmvilleHerald.com.