William Xu
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Year: Freshman
Major: Biology
BIOGRAPHY
Hi! My name is William and I am a freshman studying biology on the pre-med track at UIUC. Besides riding for Illini4000, I am also a part of the Illinois Medical Screening Society and the Viet Student Association. I enjoy going on long runs and drawing in my free time, and I am also passionate about advancing healthcare accessibility and equality. I’m excited to explore the country while riding for this amazing cause!
PERSONAL STATEMENT
Cancer has been a part of my life ever since my grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer. Watching her go through the treatment process made me realize the incredible courage and perseverance needed to overcome this devastating disease. I am incredibly grateful for the endless support she received from medical staff that eventually led to her recovery, but not every family is fortunate enough to have access to the same resources. The Illini4000 offers the perfect opportunity for me to ride for my grandmother and other cancer victims, whose unwavering strength inspires me to help those in need of medical care and treatment. Even if it means biking for over 70 miles a day, the distance pales in comparison to the impact our ride will have on the lives of patients and their families, and I hope that our journey serves as a message of resilience as we carry the stories of those we meet along the way.