The Lexington-based Shifting Gears Motorcycle Riding Group will take to the streets to benefit Erica Bryant, a Gaston woman who is fighting Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).

This Saturday, June 26, at approximately 11 am, an anticipated 200-300 motorcycles will ride an hour-long parade from Harley Haven in Irmo to Chapin (near Lake Murray) and back, offering bystanders a chance to see a large variety of bikes demonstrating support for the Bryant family and raising awareness of the challenges associated with breast cancer.

Bryant, 38, is a wife and mother of three from Gaston who recently learned of her Stage-3 IBC diagnosis and faces a challenging battle ahead that will include a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. With the most promising treatments not being covered by Bryant’s insurance, the motorcycle enthusiasts stepped up to fill a financial gap.

Shifting Gears’ group leader Mike Lafferty formed a 501(c)3 arm of the group specifically for the purpose of helping the Bryants.

“There are many worthy organizations focused on research and direct services that affect millions with cancer,” Lafferty said. “Our goal is to directly help one family close to home, and hopefully raise some awareness for others. This gives us the ability to potentially support additional causes down the road.”

IBC is a rare form of breast cancer that grows quickly and aggressively. It can be difficult to detect through normal screening methods, and it is often misdiagnosed as an infection and treated with antibiotics. As a result, IBC is typically not accurately diagnosed until it is already at an advanced stage.

Bryant’s husband Chad is the family’s sole provider, and he will lose significant time from work to care for the family while Erica undergoes aggressive treatment.

The parade ride is part of a larger event at Harley Haven that will include BBQ lunches, live music, a silent auction, various vendors, and more, all for the benefit of the Bryant family. Motorcycles and cars alike are welcome to participate in the ride, for a small, pervehicle fee, plus additional passenger fees. People wanting to support the Bryant family can also make a donation at www.RideShiftingGears.org, or call Mike Lafferty at 803-704-4213 or Gina Lafferty at 803-307-2251.