Plano Man Rumbled His Harley Across America Saving Lives
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PLANO (CBSDFW.COM) - Rick Kackley was a fighter. He had a strong spirit and never gave up despite his life threatening illness.
His wife Elizabeth Kackley says he was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008. He devoted what little time he had left to raising money and awareness across the United States. "He was driven by a strong belief in God that he could reach out to other people who had cancer," she said.
Kackley rode his bike to Austin where he met the Governor after starting an organization called Bikers Against Cancer. He traveled to California and Washington as a one man crusader and fundraiser against the disease.
Three weeks ago, the 61-year-old Air Force veteran and his wife renewed their wedding vows. The strong, long haired biker was frail and weakened from seven years of fighting for himself and other cancer survivors.
Even when he was the sickest you could see him on the phone counseling somebody or saying a prayer for somebody.
Last week, Kackley finally succumbed to the disease. He never felt sorry for himself or asked why this is happening to me?
Rick may be gone, but his family still has his beloved bike. The lasting symbol of his fight against cancer. His widow may one day be willing to part with the motorcycle. However, for now she is determined to make sure Bikers Against Cancer continues to make an impact and that it pays tribute to Rick.
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