Brother Shamus McGrena’s 2014 charity bicycle ride, “Five States in Five Days,” raised more than $32,000 for the Dorothy Day Center.

“I didn’t think I’d be able to do it,” Brother Shamus admitted.  “I had two chemo treatments and I couldn’t even walk up the steps.”

Brother Shamus said he was devastated when he couldn’t participate in last year’s ride while battling stage-four colon cancer. However, his fundraiser still went off, with others stepping up in his absence.  The 2013 fundraiser generated close to $30,000.

“I was humbled by the donations,” Brother Shamus explained. “Thanks to the support of my friends and loved ones, we were able to provide basic necessities like heat, food and water to the poor.”

The 2014 event started on July 22in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and ended in New Church, Virginia. Eight friends joined Brother Shamus for the ride.

“I didn’t know what to expect from the ride,” Brother Shamus said. “On the first night, after we arrived in Ocean City, I just started crying.”

He said he is currently trying to figure out a new biking route for next year’s fundraiser. His goal for next year is to raise $50,000.

“If the Lord is willing, I will be doing this next year,” Brother Shamus said. “Until then though, please contribute to the Dorothy Day Center.”

If you are interested in making a donation online, go to: http://francis.edu/sfubus/annualfund/giveform.asp and select “Dorothy Day Center” in Gift Information, and in Department/Scholarship category, enter “Bro. Shamus Bike Ride.”