My Solo Ride for Pancreatic Cancer

My idea is simple:
Ride my bike from Maine to Key West in a month and raise awareness about the need for better early detection of pancreatic cancer.

For the past seven years, I’ve dedicated myself to raising awareness and support for pancreatic cancer. My journey began with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute PMC Ride, a two-day event across Massachusetts. I ride alongside individuals who share a mission: to promote awareness and raise funds to help find cures for cancers that impact our lives. This year, I’m honored to ride in the PMC once more with Team Flames, and I’m adding an additional challenge.

I will be undertaking a solo ride. In May, I plan to embark on a remarkable journey from Maine to Key West, covering 2,028 miles over the course of one month. This ride is in addition to my seventh participation in the August Dana-Farber Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) ride. I see this as an opportunity to not only challenge myself physically but also to amplify my message about the critical need for cancer research and funding.

Darryl Jelley standing next to an orange BMC road bike outside Drummond custom bike shop Enfield, NH.
Darryl Jelley prepares for his solo ride from Maine to Key West, raising awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Why this extra, monumental effort? Because the fight against cancer demands our unwavering commitment. It demands we push boundaries and find new ways to make a difference. This solo ride is more than just miles on a map; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of collective action.

Throughout this journey, I aim to share stories and engage in conversations about the importance of supporting cancer care. It’s vital that we recognize the efforts of researchers and advocates working tirelessly to improve the lives of those affected by cancer. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against this disease, and I hope my ride will inspire others to get involved, whether by sharing their stories or supporting vital research initiatives.Join me on this journey, and let’s make our voices heard in the battle against cancer. Follow along as I ride from Maine to the to Key West. Let’s ride for hope, awareness, and a future free from cancer.

Donate for Solo Ride for Cancer Awareness

  • Fueling for the Solo Ride: Food and Prep for the Ride.

    Alright, so I’m six weeks and two days out from my solo ride, and things are really starting to come together! I’ve been putting a lot of thought into how I’m going to fuel myself on the road, making sure I’ve got a solid plan to keep my energy up and help my muscles recover. Figured I’d share a little peek at what I’m packing in my waterproof panniers for food.

    My main thing is keeping it simple: easily digestible foods that give me sustained energy. I’m focusing on carbs for that quick hit of energy, and protein for muscle repair, and that longer, steady burn. (Just a heads up, this is what works for me; everyone’s different, so you gotta figure out what works for you!)

    Here’s a breakdown of some of my protein power-ups:

    • Clif Bars, Skratch Labs Anytime Energy Bars: I’m a big fan of these. They’re great for steady energy, especially the ones with oats, nuts, and honey or maple syrup.
    • Energy gels, chews, and electrolyte mixes: These are essential for that quick energy boost when I need it.
    • Peanut Butter: Classic for a reason! It’s portable, protein-packed, and goes great with tortillas or fruit.
    • Jerky or Dried Meats: These are perfect for a quick protein boost and electrolytes.
    • Tuna is a ton of protein. I’m planning on pairing it with tortillas or rice. I even like the convenient package sizes it comes in.

    Speaking of rice (I love rice), I’m definitely bringing that along. It’s easy to store, calorie-dense, and easy on the stomach. I’ll be using quick-cooking white, basmati, or instant rice and spicing things up with dehydrated veggies or spices and Bachan’s Original Japanese BBQ Sauce.

    For those long ride days, I’m keeping it simple with:

    • Carb-rich meals before each ride: Think oatmeal, whole-grain toast, and eggs to top up my glycogen stores.
    • Protein and carbs at the end of the day: A protein shake, chicken and rice, or hamburger to replenish and recover.
    • Eating local foods: Alright, so when it comes to food on my solo bike ride, my plan is pretty simple: I’m gonna be eating local. And honestly, I’m really looking forward to hunting down some unique, local eats as I go. I want to see what each place has to offer!

    I’m totally expecting to be fine-tuning my meals as I go, figuring out what keeps me going and what…well, doesn’t. I’ll keep you posted on what works and what to avoid.

    Anyway, in the next post, I’m diving into what I’m planning to wear for the ride!

  • Less than 2 Months until the start of my solo ride.

    Darryl Jelley Solo Ride for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness. Start date May 8th, 2025

    Hi friends,

    Less than 2 months until the start of my solo ride—56 days, to be exact. I have been training, planning, and receiving help from family and friends to meet my start date of May 8th. Full details here

    My sister Dana (a gigantic thank you) and I have finalized the logistics of the route I’ll be riding; you can view my Solo Ride Logistics Summary, with a snapshot of the map route.


    Thank you to Evan Chismark and all the good folks at Ranch Camp Bike Shop for all their support in getting my bike ready for the long haul.

    The bike I’ll be riding for this ride will be a titanium Revel R+ Gravel Bike. I bought this bike three years ago from Ranch Camp. It has been tested in some tough gravel bike events and has never failed me. It’s all mechanical and can handle all the on and off-road conditions I’ll encounter. That said, Evan and I are making some modifications to the bike. The changes: switching from an 11-speed to a 12-speed mullet-style XT 51-tooth 12-speed cassette, a new 12-speed chain, a new XT derailleur, 12-speed GRX shifters, dual-sided pedals, and a check of hubs bearings, sealant, and other needed adjustments.


    It’s going to be a busy month. More updates will come soon! Follow along and support this effort.