LOUISE SANTOSUOSSO smiles triumphantly while riding in a past Bicycles Battling Cancer event to benefit the American Cancer Society. A longtime participant in the event each September, this year she has surpassed $500,000 in cumulative giving to honor the memory of her parents. Read more inside today’s Transcript. (Courtesy Photo)

 

NORTH READING — Louise (Larocci) Santosuosso, vice president of New England Development for the American Cancer Society, has one mission, to end cancer, as we know it, for everyone.

Santosuosso, 57, and a resident of North Reading, will do this by riding in the American Cancer Society’s Bicycles Battling Cancer on Sunday, September 17. An avid bicyclist for decades, Santosuosso recently surpassed $500,000 in funds raised toward life-saving treatment, research, and services and support for those with cancer.

Having lost both parents, Audrey and Joseph Larocci, of Topsfield, to cancer, this ride is more than a Sunday on a bike; it’s personal.

“My mom and dad have been there for me every single one of those dollars raised, either here on earth or watching down from heaven,” Santosuosso said. “It’s been four years since I lost my beautiful mother, Audrey, to kidney cancer and 14 years since I lost my amazing father, Joseph, to lymphoma.”

“Cancer has affected many people I know and love, and I am once again inspired to ride in this year’s American Cancer Society Bicycles Battling Cancer event,” she explained.

Bicycles Battling Cancer is a bike ride in support of the American Cancer Society. Riders can participate in a scenic 30-, 50-, 70-, or 100-mile ride through Central Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Riders of all levels are invited to join and may participate as an individual or as part of a team. A post-ride celebration with music, food, activities, and a kid zone will be held the day of the event.

To join Bicycles Battling Cancer, or support its mission with a monetary donation visit www.bicyclesbattlingcancer.org.

To help Louise Santosuosso surpass her goal and honor those with cancer, visit: main.acsevents.org/goto/LouiseS