Community Stories
2025 Pelotonia Awards: Mary Hyatt Courage Award, Gordon Hecker
| December 3, 2025
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
The Mary Hyatt Courage Award recognizes a cancer survivor who embodies courage, perseverance, and grit and has been instrumental in advancing the Pelotonia mission through grassroots activism, leadership, fundraising, and volunteerism.
One of our two Mary Hyatt Courage Awards in 2025 goes to Gordon Hecker.
Gordon’s story is one of resilience, optimism, and unwavering dedication. Just days before Pelotonia 2024, he discovered a lump that led to a rare cancer diagnosis, followed by surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The months that followed tested his endurance and faith, but through every challenge, Gordon remained deeply connected to the Pelotonia community. He continued to lead and inspire others — showing up for teammates, sharing his journey, and reminding everyone that the mission to end cancer is personal and powerful.
Now in remission, Gordon rides with Team Bexley as an eight-year Rider and High Roller, having raised more than $44,000 to date. His courage has inspired Riders as far away as Israel to join Pelotonia and believe in the movement’s impact. In 2025, he rode the first 25 miles of the 100-mile route before having to stop as his immune system crashed. Two weeks later, he completed the final 75 miles — proof that determination and heart can carry us through even the hardest roads.
Gordon’s perseverance is a beacon of hope for all who face cancer, reminding us that courage shines brightest when shared.
Congratulations to Gordon Hecker on receiving the 2025 Mary Hyatt Courage Award!
The 2025 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 18th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
