It all began on a gloomy, rainy day in the fall of 2012—when two dedicated oncologists, Dr. Brad Somer and Dr. Todd Tillmanns, sparked an idea that would ignite a movement. What started as a conversation about raising “a few dollars” for cancer patients and research has grown into one of the most powerful and unifying fundraising events in the Mid-South.
The very first event, then known as Ride to Conquer Cancer, rolled out in April 2013 with just 25 cyclists and weather that couldn’t dampen their spirit. Even in the rain, they rode with purpose, raising $54,000 and planting the seeds of something extraordinary.
Since then, that one rainy ride has evolved into West Fight On—a vibrant, inclusive, and deeply moving celebration of courage, hope, and community. What began as a “little” fundraiser is now a beloved annual tradition for the entire community.
The event has raised $3,237,178, including projected revenue of $700,000 for 2025. However, this event is about so much more than the dollars raised. It’s about the people.
Every year, in the early hours before sunrise, a committed army of volunteers and West Cancer Foundation staff gather at Shelby Farms Park. They arrive in the dark, set up in dew-covered fields, and work tirelessly until the final pieces are packed away. And through it all—there are no complaints. Why? Because everyone there knows: the effort they put in is nothing compared to the battles cancer patients fight every single day.
West Fight On is not just a ride, run, or walk—it’s a moment of unity. It’s where families, survivors, caregivers, physicians, friends, and strangers come together for one cause: to fight on for those who can’t fight alone.
Over the years, the event has grown in size, scope, and heart:
- From its cycling roots to adding walking and running events in 2017, making it inclusive for people of all ages and fitness levels
- From a few hundred riders to thousands of participants
- From a local fundraiser to a cornerstone of cancer support across the Mid-South
Even in the face of adversity—like the virtual pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic—the spirit of this community never wavered. Instead, it adapted, rallied, and proved that West Fight On is not just an event; it’s a movement.
And the impact? It’s real, it’s local, and it’s life-changing.
Funds raised support free services for cancer patients—transportation, screenings, mental health counseling, and the Sweet Wig Beauty Boutique—as well as grants for research and education that fuel the future of oncology. When you participate, donate, or even just share the story, you’re helping someone access care they couldn’t otherwise afford. You’re giving someone a ride to chemo. You’re helping someone get screened early. You’re helping someone fight.
West Fight On is proudly supported by West Cancer Center, Saint Francis Hospital, Regional One, the American Cancer Society, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and the University of Memphis—all coming together to show that we are strongest when we stand together.
And that’s the heartbeat of this event: bringing the entire oncology community together to fight cancer as one.
From that rainy morning in 2013 to today, our story is one of resilience, compassion, and hope. Whether you’re riding, running, walking, volunteering, or donating—you are part of something bigger. You are part of the fight.
Together, we fight on.
