Pedaling On Purpose

PEDALING ON PURPOSE recounts an unimaginable, unprecedented journey never before accomplished-- by anyone. A journey intending to change two lives, instead transforming scores of thousands around the world. A journey, whose underlying life lessons resonate even more so today, for readers of all ages.

It was 1982. Ken Rogers and friend Steve Anderson quit their jobs for an ultimate adventure of incomprehensible challenge: to bicycle not just across America, but through every single one of the contiguous lower 48 states. In 1982 there were no cell or smart phones, no Internet or WIFI, no Travelocity or Hotel.com, no GPS or Google Maps, no MAPQUEST, ATM’s or laptops – and no one associated long distance bike riding with performance enhancing drugs. They had little pedaling experience, small savings, zero physical training, no corporate sponsorships, and no real source of funding between them.

Learning of a unique fundraising effort by a popular Twin cities radio talk show host Dick Pomerantz, they found their motivation. Calling into his show, they announced they would fulfill their dream by supporting this till then unheard of group: Make- A-Wish of Minnesota started by an impromptu radio campaign to fill special wishes for children with life threatening illnesses. Their torturous continental journey fully funded the first five wishes. More importantly, their completed journey helped launch national awareness of a then unheard of local -- now a global organization that has since granted over 334,000 wishes worldwide.

“Thank you for saving your story and for sharing Katie's inspiration in your story. We all want to know that our lives have meaning and purpose. You shared an important part of your lives with us and let your readers know that Katie's little life also had a purpose. I read your book--cover to cover--on this 25th anniversary of your return and of Katie's wish for a 6th birthday party. Your book will be a gift to all of our family and friends.”
~ Craig and Nancy Campbell Parents of Katie 2/24/1977– 2/15/1983

Ken Rogers’ powerful book spurs his readers’ full range of emotions, touching and moving them to the core. Leaving them with new-found conviction-- after viscerally experiencing pedaling 10,000 miles over seven months-- that they too can do more…accomplish more…be more than ever imagined. What started as a bicycle ride by two men helped change the world as we know it. PEDALING ON PURPOSE is their inspiring story of courage, friendship, and the joy of making a difference in the lives of children everywhere.

“I expected to read a book about a bicycle trip – even an adventure. And it was that! But what I encountered was an incredible story of a friendship, and of personal accomplishment. Two ‘blood brothers’ with a purpose greater than themselves, just regular guys that give hope to ALL of us regular guys out here. I laughed, I cried, I felt your moments of fear and of triumph as if I were stowed in a sidecar with you. Your readers feel the scorching desert heat, the bone-chilling cold of Wisconsin and best of all get a glimpse into the kind souls and the character of this great country. Thanks for the ride, guys!” ~ Paul “Pigeye” Jackson