He Showed Up for Research Because Research Showed Up for Him
Dave Rabiega volunteered at the first Audaxity ride for one simple reason: cancer research showed up for him, so he wanted to show up for it.
“I know what cancer research means to people’s lives,” said Dave. “And I know it takes more than scientists in a lab to make it successful.”
A lifelong Milwaukeean and an engineer by training, Dave understands what it takes to move complex work forward. Time. Resources. People working together. When Audaxity launched as a new way to support research at the MCW Cancer Center, volunteering felt like the right way to contribute.
Dave’s connection to cancer is deeply personal. His mother passed away from metastatic breast cancer in 1995. His father died from pancreatic cancer just ten days after diagnosis in 2002. His sister is a thyroid cancer survivor. And in 2022, Dave was diagnosed with epithelioid sarcoma.
What began as a small lump that was initially dismissed eventually led him to the Cancer Center and Dr. Alexandra Istl. There, his care took a decisive turn. Radiation. Surgery. Careful follow-up. When cancer later appeared in a nearby lymph node, it was caught early and treated quickly. Today, Dave’s scans show no signs of recurrence.
“When I look at where cancer research was when my parents were sick compared to now, the difference is incredible,” he said. “They didn’t have the level of research behind them that I’ve had. I want to do anything I can to support what comes next.”
That commitment brought him to Audaxity.
On ride weekend, Dave helped set up the start and finish areas, cheered riders as they rolled out and crossed back in, and stayed to help take everything down. But the most meaningful moments were not the tasks themselves. They were the encounters with Cancer Center researchers and learning about the incredible work underway, from early detection to treatment to long-term support. Connecting with other volunteers whose lives had also been shaped by cancer. Cheering for the final rider, exhausted but smiling, lifted by the energy at the finish line.
“I didn’t expect how much the cheering would matter,” said Dave. “Seeing that last rider come in reinforced that this was worthwhile for everyone.”
Dave’s path to Audaxity started simply. A mention in The Cancer Code. An episode of The Word on Medicine podcast. Then a familiar name stood out: the Sarcoma Team.
“Once I understood what Audaxity was really about, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” he said.
For Dave, Audaxity is proof of what’s possible when a community shows up for research and for each other. It’s also a point of pride that this work is happening right here in Milwaukee.
As for anyone considering riding or volunteering in 2026?
“Do it,” Dave encouraged. “The sense of community is incredible. Being able to actively support cancer research is deeply fulfilling.”
Learn more about Volunteer opportunities for Audaxity and sign up today!
