Stroke research fundraiser surpasses goal in Goodyear

 More than 200 participants gathered in the Estrella community for Arizona’s inaugural CycleNation event, pedaling stationary bikes to raise $166,000 for stroke research and prevention.

The total surpassed the American Stroke Association’s initial fundraising goal of $150,000.

Proceeds from the event, which featured teams of two to eight riders, are earmarked for brain health research and local educational initiatives. Tim Brislin, chair of the 2026 CycleNation Phoenix initiative, said the movement is designed to bolster workplace wellness and community health beyond the single-day fundraiser.

"We’re not only making a significant impact on the overall health of our community through fundraising, but the initiative is also designed to improve employee engagement, wellness and overall workplace health," Brislin said.

Shelley Davis, a stroke survivor from Mesa, helped kick off the cycling sessions. Davis shared her story of surviving a 100% blockage of blood flow while on a cruise ship in 2015. Following emergency surgery, she made a full recovery and now advocates for early intervention.

Organizers said that strokes remain the fourth most common cause of death and are a leading cause of disability in the United States. According to the American Stroke Association:

• Nearly 800,000 Americans experience a stroke annually.
• One in four stroke survivors will experience a second stroke.
• Quickly recognizing warning signs is critical to preventing long-term disability.

The Goodyear event was part of a national effort to reduce the impact of cardiovascular disease. More information on local initiatives can be found at www.cyclenation.org/phoenix.