RipIt Makes Strides In The Fight Against Cancer One Mile At A Time

by Rachel Hunter

The First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur’s fitness ministry, RipIt, is making strides against cancer.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that The First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur’s fitness ministry, RipIt, is now in its 11th year. The group consists of community members focusing on a wellness journey. The ministry builds strong fellowship by creating safe spaces where people can encourage one another, share goals, and grow together both physically and spiritually. In the month of April, RipIt hosted a team challenge to help “step in to spring” and to “join the fight against cancer – one mile at a time. RipIt members (also known as “Ripiteers”) signed up collectively to walk or run 100 miles. The virtual challenge was initiated by the American Cancer Society. The Ripiteers accepted the challenge to “end cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

The American Cancer Society's mission is to improve the lives of people affected by cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. They aim to ensure everyone has the opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. By funding groundbreaking research, providing free resources like a 24/7 helpline, and advocating for affordable healthcare, they strive to reduce the burden of cancer. With a presence in over 21,000 communities, the American Cancer Society works tirelessly to support patients, caregivers, and survivors at every step of their journey. For more information, visit cancer.org.

The RipIt Ministry “shared the load” and developed teams of three to commit to 100 miles per team, 33-plus miles per challenger. Each challenger donated $11 ($33 per team) to support the non-profit organization and American Society’s research and patient support services.

The Ripiteers reached their goal: 1,000 miles, $1,000 dollars and 1,000 prayers for their family and friends that have fought or are still fighting against cancer.

A total of 19 teams participated, and the group ended the month of April with a large group, one-mile walk to show unity and love for one another.

The following are the team names and those they walked in honor or memory of: Team SRM: Sarah Fitzgerald, Rochelle Pratt, Matthew Escarciga (in honor of Cindy Escarciga and Rochelle Pratt), The Young And The Breathless: Staci Hayden, Ashley Barr, Leesa Isereau (in honor of Stacie Hamilton), DreamTeam: Lauren Correa, Pat Williams, Amber Ormasen (in honor of Amber Ormasen), Holy Walkamolies: Tina French, April Sochia, Leanne Bos (in honor of Olivia Bos, April Sochia and in memory of Janet Wells), The Music Movers: Kasie and Sophia McCurdey (Donald, Phyllis and Stephanie Witherell), The Ghost Busters: Aubrey MacMartin, Adalynn Tupper and Madison Legault (in honor of Amber Ormasen), The Tenacious Trio: Amanda Cox, Alissa Jenne, Bekah Baker (in honor of Ilene Burke), The Core Three: Rachel Laso, Shelly Jenkins, Cindy Ferry (in honor of Mary LaFave, Ricky Cole).

Also, Team Sweet, Sassy and Classy: Britney and Janelle Mason, Brianna Prashaw (Jane Simmons, Carol Delaney), The Walkie Talkies: Kristy Kulp, Lisa Stowell and Kylie Prashaw (in honor of Bill Prashaw, Tammy Blevins, Lucinda Dennee), Team Triple Threat: Gwen O’Shea, Paula Bates, Kara Rockwood (in honor of Bruce O’Shea), Team Just Breathe: Keara Woodrow, Kimberly Mathews, Melissa Breckenridge (in honor of Renee Smith), Team The Walking Dead: Rachael, Sarah and Christine Stannard (in honor of John Stannard), Team Walk Walka (Cuz’ We Ain't Gonna Runa Runa): Sheri Sharpe, Wendy Baker, Connie LaBow (in memory of Linda Thayer Green).

As well, The Walking Warriors: Bridgett Funk, Sarah Scott, Stephanie Legault (in honor of Amber Ormasen), Team Hot Flash Express: Shelly Clancy, Bobbie Holmes, Carol Bigarel (in honor of April Socia and Amber Ormasen), Team Sunshine Therapy: Linda Golja, Janet Boyd, Glenda Bickford (in memory of Patricia Goslin, Charlotte Livingston and in honor of Nancy Zimmerman), Walking on Sunshine: Pamela Stevens, Rich Trowbridge, Raechelle Willix (in honor of Amber Ormasen), The Stepping Stones: Sandi Berry, Janice Barbarito, Amy Breglia (in honor of Erik Eacker and Robert Ferry).

For more information about First UMC of Gouverneur or RipIt, call 315-287-2440 or visit www.gouverneurumc.org or the social media pages on Facebook.