Local Survivor, eCycle Studio Team Up for Breast-cancer Fundraiser

WILBRAHAM — Four years ago, East Longmeadow resident Lucia Manzi-Basile received a life-changing diagnosis of breast cancer. Today, her journey has taken a much more uplifting turn. In celebration of her remission, Manzi-Basile, along with over 20 riders, gathered at eCycle in Wilbraham for a fundraising event benefiting Rays of Hope, an organization dedicated to breast-cancer research and support.

“When I was diagnosed, I felt like my world was spinning out of control,” Manzi-Basile said. “This event today was about taking control of that spin — turning it into something powerful and positive, for myself and for others still fighting.”

The event was hosted at Wilbraham’s eCycle, a local spin studio owned by Erica Gonzalez, who has consistently leveraged her studio as a platform to support a variety of worthwhile causes. She has previously organized events around heart disease, as well as mental-health awareness, donating both her time and financial resources. When approached about hosting this Ride for Rays of Hope, she was eager to participate.

“It was a no-brainer,” Gonzalez said. “As a community, we support one another, and this was the perfect opportunity to open my studio and my heart. I’m proud to be a part of something that brings people together for such a meaningful cause.”

Participants were decked out in pink as they took to the bikes for the Ride for Rays of Hope. In addition to the ride, attendees had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for themed baskets, with proceeds going directly to the charity. Erica also donated the space and equipment for the event, ensuring everyone could join without cost. Manzi-Basile was joined by friends, family, and supporters, all pedaling in unison to celebrate her remission and the impact Rays of Hope has on the breast-cancer community.