Cancer touches nearly everyone, but many do not know how to help. Lila Erickson has found a way to help fund cancer research by beginning what she hopes will be an annual horseback ride to benefit the Bismarck Cancer Foundation.

Her son, Marshall Erickson, was diagnosed with a brain tumor a year ago, and has since had to retire from his position as a major in the Air Force.

At that point, he had one brain tumor in the front, but as that tumor decreased, three more tumors appeared in the back of his brain. He is receiving treatment that is making him extremely weak. Lila Erickson hopes that his strength will soon return so he can enjoy time working on the farm.

"He's got a good attitude. He really wants to ride," she said. "We just keep praying."

The ride will begin at 10 a.m. Aug. 9 at her family farm 11 miles northeast of Wilton, and will feature rolling hills with lots of trees and wildlife. A donation of $10 is suggested for everyone that saddles up.

Lutheran Thrivent Insurance Co. has offered to match the amount that is raised up to $500.

"All donations we receive will go to the Bismarck Cancer Center," she said. "They have been so good to Marshall."

Registration will take place the from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Aug. 9, but Lila Erickson requests pre-registration by phone at 701-734-6581 or by e-mail at lila@;bektel.com.

Barbeque, chips, pop and bars will be served by the Still Homemakers Club after the ride, so they would like a head count.

Lila Erickson got the idea to begin this Wilton-based cancer ride after attending a similar McCloud ride for the past three years. She hopes to turn it into a yearly happening.

(Kay Kemmet can be reached at kay.kemmet@;bismarcktribune.com or at 250-8260.)