Man walks cross country to raise awareness of cancer

Why did Rick Hammersley cross the road into Hastings?

Because he had walked about 1,700 miles -- and he had about 1,700 more to go.

To some, that is not much of a punch line. To most, it just sounds crazy.

To Rick and his wife, Valda, crossing roads and counting the miles behind and ahead of them has been a way of life for the last four months.

Rick is walking across America -- from Bodega Bay, Calif., to Coney Island, N.Y. -- to raise money for cancer research.

Five years ago he underwent surgery and seven months of chemotherapy for colon cancer. Rick has also had diabetes for 19 years.

"I'm doing this because I am alive," he said. "I've always wanted to do something like this, then I realized that when I turn 60, it'll be the fifth anniversary of overcoming cancer."

He and Valda are spending Wednesday through Saturday in Hastings. The three-day stop will not only mark the trip's halfway point, but is significant because the Hammersleys lived in Hastings four years ago. Their daughter and her family will visit from Oklahoma while the couple is in town.

"I'll still be walking these three days, but not with a purpose, so to say," he said.

The couple left California in April and plan to arrive on the East Coast by mid-November. Rick walks 20 miles a day, resting every six to seven days.

The goal is to raise $10,000 for Gateway for Cancer Research. He accepts donations and picks up change he finds along the road -- which is being matched by donors. So far he has raised $1,700 total.

"Now, finding a quarter is like finding 15 or 16 quarters," he said.

While he has received sponsorships and help from companies, the money to travel the country comes from his pocket, he said. That includes $150 each time he fills his RV with gas.

"That was an expense we didn't see coming," he said.

Despite gas prices, Rick said he is enjoying his trek across the United States.

"I'm out there talking to myself, to the birds, to the cows, to anyone that will listen," Rick said. "And everyone we've met listens and has been so nice."

While Rick walks along major highways, Valda drives ahead to look for a place to either rest, eat or park for the night.

Rick received medical check-ups Thursday at Grand Island's Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

"The nurses were so impressed with my health," he said. "And I say, ’It's just the walking -- it's so good for you.'"

He has lost 45 pounds, and may be able to cease taking some of his diabetes medications.

Walking's positive health effects are what Rick hopes people take from his experience.

"I want to be an inspiration for people to get out there and walk," he said. "The best thing I can do is encourage someone to get up off the couch and walk."

To follow Rick's journey, visit www.rickwalksamerica.com.