Wilmington cancer survivor turns personal battle into mission to help kids

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington cancer survivor is turning his own battle with cancer into a mission to help children facing the disease.

At just four years old, Matt Hopman was diagnosed with a brain tumor and began a fight that would ultimately make him a cancer survivor.

Now, decades later, Hopman is using his experience to give back to children battling cancer. He is raising money for the Children’s Cancer Research Fund through the Great Cycle Challenge, an annual fundraiser that challenges participants to ride their bikes and set personal goals in support of childhood cancer research.

Since joining the challenge in 2023, Hopman has raised more than $2,000. He says you don’t have to be an experienced cyclist or set a massive goal to make a difference.

“When you sign up for the challenge, there is no minimum goal that you have to set. You choose that on your own,” said Hopman. “I usually set mine around 50 to 60 miles.”

To learn more about the challenge, or to help donate, head to the organization’s website for more information.