Riding for a Brighter Future: Why Team PALM is Pedal-Ready
by Mary Druyvesteyn, PALM Health Team Captain / photos provided by PALM Health
PALM Health is putting its commitment to longevity into motion by joining Pedal the Cause, September 19–20, 2026, at the Family Arena in St. Charles, uniting employees, members, friends, cyclists, spinners, volunteers and donors in the fight against cancer.
At PALM Health, our days are defined by a singular mission: helping our members optimize their longevity, recover mind and body, and live their most vibrant lives. We are, at our core, a community that believes health is not merely the absence of disease, but a dynamic, active pursuit of well-being. But in our journey toward optimal health, we know that true wellness extends beyond the individual. It requires connection, support, and the collective strength of our community.
That is why I am so incredibly proud to share that PALM Health has officially joined the ranks of Pedal the Cause.
Lisa Moore, Mary Druyvesteyn, and Melissa Merlin from the PALM Health Pedal the Cause team.
For those who may not know us intimately, PALM Health is more than a club; we are a St. Louis-based longevity center in Ladue dedicated to “Personalized Advanced Longevity Medicine.” We bring together functional medicine, regenerative therapies, and lifestyle support to empower our members. However, we have always believed that community-building is tantamount to a balanced, healthy life. This shared experience—being together, working together, and celebrating together—is the heartbeat of what we do.
Mary Druyvesteyn and Pam Mandelker: Director of Advancement for Pedal the Cause
When we looked for a way to extend our reach and deepen our ties to the St. Louis region, Pedal the Cause stood out as the natural partner. Just as PALM Health is a St. Louis-based startup with a global vision, Pedal the Cause is a powerhouse local enterprise with an impact that resonates far beyond our city limits.
PALM Health building
A Legacy of Hope: Why We Ride
Since its inception in 2010, Pedal the Cause has grown from a humble, grassroots bike ride into a powerful movement that has fundamentally shifted the landscape of cancer research in St. Louis. To date, the organization has raised over $56 million—a staggering figure that represents more than just dollars. It represents hope, innovation, and, most importantly, results.
The mission of Pedal the Cause is deeply personal to many of us. 100% of the funds raised go directly to Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children's Hospital. By funding research that often falls outside the scope of traditional federal grants, Pedal the Cause empowers scientists to pursue high-risk, high-reward studies that have the potential to change the way we treat, and eventually defeat, this disease.
When we ride, we aren't just pedaling across the finish line; we are contributing to a future where cancer is no longer a life-limiting diagnosis.
More Than Just a Bike Ride
The PALM Health team is a diverse, enthusiastic group of volunteers, donors, cyclists, and spinners. We include our employees, our members, and our friends—all of us united by a shared purpose.
Mary Druyvesteyn and John Pennington, owner and CEO of Properties Brands
We know that training for such a significant challenge can be daunting, which is why we’ve built a support system within our team that mirrors the holistic care we provide at our facility. Beyond the official events and rides organized by the Pedal the Cause team, we are treating our team members to monthly “Pilates for a Purpose” classes and team gatherings. We offer guided group rides, team training sessions, and dedicated fundraising mentorship to ensure that everyone feels supported, whether they are seasoned cyclists or first-time charity riders.
Why You Should Join Us
You might ask, "Why should I help?" The answer is simple: Because you can make a difference.
At PALM, we focus on the science of longevity—helping people live longer, healthier, more vibrant lives. Cancer is the antithesis of that goal. By participating in this movement, we are actively fighting for more birthdays, more celebrations, and more time for the people we love.
Spinning class at PALM Health
There are so many ways to support the team beyond riding a bike. Whether you choose to cycle the distance, spin in a relay, volunteer at the event, or provide financial support to help us reach our fundraising goals, your contribution matters. We need your voice to help us spread the word and your energy to help us fuel this mission.
This journey is meant to be shared. It is celebratory, it is rewarding, and quite frankly, it is a lot of fun. Anyone is eligible to join Team PALM, and I would be honored to have you with us.
If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to me directly at mdruyvesteyn@palmhealth.com. Let’s join our communities, combine our strengths, and do this together. We are the answer to cancer.