Inspired by his wife’s recovery from breast cancer, long-distance bicyclist Al Reszel last summer rode from the St. Paul area to New York City, raising awareness and donations for breast cancer research.

On June 5, he plans to set out on a 3,500-mile ride from Los Angeles to the Midtown Manhattan office of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, a trip expected to take 45-60 days.

Reszel completed the 21-day, 1,700-mile ride to New York on June 3 after setting out from Afton State Park. He raised more than $7,000 through donations collected at advance events and through social media and the internet.

“It’s about the struggle, the care, the research and the cure,” said Reszel, who with wife Terry founded Pink Pedals 4 A Cure, their fundraising organization, in 2016.

In June 2016, he set a precedent for his cross-country ride with a six-day, 517-mile solo ride from St. Paul to Geneva, Ill., also in support of cancer research.

Terry’s cancer journey began in 2001 with multiple biopsies and ultrasounds that ultimately led to a diagnosis in 2010. Soon thereafter, she underwent a bilateral mastectomy.

Reszel has been a road cyclist for more than a quarter-century and continues to participate in rides against breast cancer around the Midwest.

After 29 years as a business executive and trainer for companies such as Well Fargo and Great Western Bank, the Richmond resident decided to return to school, earning his master’s degree in special education from Bemidji State University in 2013.

Reszel continues to teach special education at Yellow Medicine East High School in Granite Falls, and when he isn’t teaching or riding, he enjoys time with his wife, Terry, and their two children and four grandchildren.

To learn more about the Reszels, their accomplishments and ambitious plans — or to donate to their cause, visit pinkpedals4acure.org or call (630) 524-4531.