Trucks, Tractors, and 20-Year Survivor Lead Cancer Rally

When 83-year-old Nancy Meddings took the microphone at an Iowa racetrack, she had a message about facing her second cancer diagnosis: "I am not going to let it get me."

Her words kicked off the Midwest Pride in Your Ride Truck and Tractor Show at Tri-State Raceway in Earlville. The annual event transforms roaring engines and competitive pulls into a celebration of cancer survivors and a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Jeanette Ward, a 20-year cancer survivor from Monticello, led the Cancer Survivor Convoy with her husband Terry. She waved to cheering crowds as trucks and tractors lined up to honor those who've battled the disease.

The event's founder, Eldon Jaeger, attended while still recovering from heart surgery. In an emotional moment, he thanked his daughter Kathy Massey for keeping the event going after his wife Barb passed away suddenly last year. Massey, not one for public speaking, simply waved to acknowledge the recognition.

Between tractor pulls and auctions, families gathered to support the cause. Wells Fisher and his 6-year-old son Ryan won a signed replica truck at the fundraising auction, taking home a memento while contributing to cancer research.

Mark and Beth Ann Scott from Ohio even attempted something never done before at the event. The couple tried pulling one sled together with their matching Freightliner trucks, bending some weight bars and chipping paint in the process but creating an unforgettable moment.

Why This Inspires

This community proves that hope doesn't have to be quiet or somber. They wrapped their support in the thunder of diesel engines and the dust of competition, creating a celebration that honors both the fight and the fighters.

Nancy Meddings faced kidney cancer in 2008 and beat it. Now at 83, facing new cancers, she's showing up and speaking out. Her defiance in the face of another diagnosis captures what makes this event special: it's not just about surviving but about living fully and loudly.

The event brought together the American Cancer Society, local families, and a community that knows how to turn something they love into something that heals.

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