NORTH WHITEHALL TOWNSHIP, Pa. — 13-year-old Carter Boyle rode 31 miles alongside his grandfather, Paul, during the ninth annual Great Big Group Ride, a charity cycling event Sunday that raised money for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley.

The ride began and ended at Independence Park in North Whitehall Township, bringing together nearly 150 cyclists to support local children battling cancer and their families.

For Carter, the ride was more than a challenge on two wheels. It was a way to give back to the organization that supported him and his family during his own cancer journey.

Carter was diagnosed with liver cancer when he was 2 years old. Now a survivor, he participated in the event to help raise money for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, which provides financial, social and emotional support to children with cancer and their families.

“It was tough with the hills for sure,” Carter said. “But I’m glad I was able to do it. It was fun.”

Carter’s mother, Casey Boyle, said her son has always enjoyed riding bikes with his father and grandfather. She said the entire family continues to support him, just as they did during his cancer treatment.

“The whole family is here. All the grandmas, grandpas, brothers. Everybody’s here,” she said. “They were here for his surgery and his cancer battle and they’re here now.”

Carter’s grandfather said the work done by the foundation has made a meaningful difference for families facing childhood cancer.

“The organization does so much for these kids,” Paul Boyle said. “We’re very thankful.”

Carter’s mother said the 13-year-old was the youngest participant to complete the 31-mile course.

Carter said he hopes his experience encourages other children facing similar challenges.

“I would say just keep going. It’s going to get better,” Carter said. “Maybe come try something like this. Do something to make yourself happy during the times. It’s rough, but it gets better.”

Nearly 150 cyclists took part in this year’s event, with every mile helping raise funds for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley.