Farewell to Cassie Wertz: The Heart of Bike the US for MS
As we approach April, we soon bid farewell to our beloved Executive Director, Cassie Wertz.
From Rider to Executive Director
Cassie’s journey with Bike the US for MS began in 2011, when she joined as a rider on the Northern Tier. She was driven to participate in the ride by her friend Nikki, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the young age of 25. Cassie rode with the hope of raising awareness and funds for MS research and volunteering her time for the MS community.
Fast forward to 2012, Cassie was in grad school for nonprofit administration and returned as a Route Leader, her dedication to the cause continued to grow. Her passion for the organization and her drive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by MS led her to take on the role of Program Manager, quickly moving to Program Director, and eventually Executive Director. Over the last 10 years, Cassie has been instrumental in the growth and success of Bike the US for MS.
Expanding the Reach and Impact of Bike the US for MS
Under her leadership, the organization has expanded from just two cross-country trips to a six-month season, including coastal adventures and the development across the pond of Bike the UK for MS. Cassie’s unwavering support and guidance have helped over 1,000 cyclists achieve their goal of riding across the US, a collective distance of over 2.5 million miles. But Cassie’s impact extends far beyond just the miles covered. Through her tireless efforts, she has helped raise over $3.8 million for MS research and home modification projects.
Cassie’s warm smile, positivity, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impression on everyone at Bike the US for MS. Her approachable and caring nature made her a beloved friend to all. She was organized, compassionate, and a natural leader, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Cassie’s selfless efforts to build Bike the US for MS into what it is today will forever be remembered.
Transforming Bike the US for MS into a Thriving Family
One of the most remarkable things about Cassie is her ability to turn an organization into a community. She created an environment that is welcoming, warmhearted, and full of spirit. Her vibrant energy and empathy made her a motivating and relatable leader, ensuring everyone grasped the mission they were championing. Cassie’s resourcefulness and reliability were unparalleled, and her tenacity and unrelenting resolve were unwavering.
It takes a special person to devote this much effort to a cause that is worthy. Cassie’s zestful and zealous approach to her work is an inspiration to us all. Her wisdom, wit, and well-spoken nature made her an impactful and inspiring trailblazer. Her imaginative and insightful approach to problem-solving and her empathetic and encouraging nature made her a role model to all.
Ride Strong
In conclusion, Cassie’s decade plus of dedication to Bike the US for MS will never be forgotten. Her impact on the organization and the lives of those affected by MS is immeasurable. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she has touched and the difference she has made in the fight against MS. Cassie, we thank you for your unwavering commitment to the cause and for being a shining light in the Bike the US for MS community. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and know that you will continue to make a positive impact wherever life takes you.
Cass, you will always be a part of the Bike the US for MS family, and your spirit will live on in all of us. Thank you for your decade plus of service and for being such a sensational and strong leader and friend. Farewell, Cassie, and Ride Strong.
Tributes from our Alumni Family
Don Fraser - Founder of Bike the US for MS
There are some people who inherently make the world a better place. Cassie Wertz is one of these people. Her selfless dedication to Bike the US for MS over the past 12 years has brought us experiences that we will appreciate forever. The impact of the dollars raised for MS research, service projects completed, and direct financial assistance granted is incredible; but this really only begins to tell the story of how Cassie has positively shaped many of our lives. I will forever be grateful for her devotion to all of us in the MS community and can’t wait to see what the future holds for her. Thank you Cassie!
Kaylyn Messenger - Alumni, Employee & Board Member
Cassie poured her whole heart into Bike the US for MS. I was always in awe of her work ethic and dedication not only to the cause, but to every person who was touched by the organization. Whether it was a handwritten note in a package, a long pre-trip phone call to talk all things bikes, or designing the jersey each season, everything had a personal touch.
I met Cassie at the farm in 2015 before my NoTier ride, and I could never have imagined that she would become one of my dearest friends and my mentor. I’m grateful for the riverside interview in Telluride that led to many years of growing and learning from Cass. Her legacy with Bike the US for MS will forever be felt in each community we ever pedaled through, and in the hearts of all the clinics, hosts, service project recipients, route leaders, cyclists and the entire MS community she served over the last decade. We love you Cassie. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Angela Shaw - Former Board Member & Fundraiser living with MS.
I met Cassie in June 2012 when the Trans Am team stopped in Charlottesville, VA. I was immediately captivated by her bubbly personality… That smile! Over the course of the next 10 years, we’ve watched Cassie grow from a “newbie” route organizer to the administrative diva she is today.
Her “let’s get it done”, “you can do it” attitude is infectious and reflects the encouraging voice that she’s been to everyone in the BTUSFMS community. Cassie’s commitment to promoting MS awareness and raising monies to help people with MS has been nothing short of inspirational. She helped me realize my potential as a fundraiser and vocal advocate within the MS community. I’m not certain I could have had the impact that I had without her support. Cassie you are a true champion and SuperShero in my book!
Duncan Moore - Alumni & Employee
I had no idea what I was getting into when I got off the bus in Virginia to ride the TransAm in 2013. But Cassie and Don were there to pick me up, share their excitement, calm my nerves, and take me to orientation.
I had no idea that when I set out on a two month adventure with Bike the US for MS, that it would turn into a ten year journey, and they would still be picking me up or dropping me off at bus stops and airports season after season. Cassie and Don welcomed me into this community and have made Bike the US for MS and Blacksburg feel like a home away from home for me and so many others.
Cassie - Farewell friend. Your unwavering optimism and ability to get things done with a smile have left a lasting impact on all who have had the privilege of knowing you. May your future be filled with endless success and happiness, and may your positive spirit continue to touch the lives of many!
Dr James Bowen, MD
Swedish Neuroscience Institute
It has been my great pleasure and a privilege to work with Cassie Wertz over the past 10 years as she directed Bike the US for MS. I have been able to directly witness the great job she has done in organizing the rides, including the Northern Tier ride that ends in Seattle, and coordinating with us as they rolled into Seattle to conclude their long ride. The planning and logistics required would intimidate the average person, but not Cassie. The success of the rides and the survival of the organization through a number of challenges, including the worst pandemic in a century, is a tribute to her abilities.
More Alumni Tributes
Phil Cooper - Alumni & Board Member
Cassie,
What a journey we have been on. I can still remember your voice in 2003, calling in with what you thought were bed bugs on the Northern Tier and me not believing you. Oh, was my first instinct wrong!! Many phone calls later, two heat treatments in two different cities, well, I saw your leadership first hand and I never had doubts about your potential and future for growth (as well as knowledge of bed bugs!!). And thank goodness you have never had to worry about bed bugs on a ride again (but too bad you did not get to put your pest control knowledge to work). But it was those lessons that carried you through so many other challenges year in year out, ride to ride.
Watching you grow, watching you develop and nurture a BOD and taking our organization to a new level, has brought me great joy. You leave a legacy behind, one that is in the capable hands of the person YOU mentored, James. You and I are kindred spirits in so many ways, one of which is building true legacy. And legacy is what you have created with your tireless stewardship of a cause and an organization that bears your imprint forever. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be by your side and watch you do your amazing things. The new chapter begins, with new impact and new memories. To my dear friend, -Phil
James Whateley - Employee
Cassie, I am lost for words. I simply can’t express my gratitude for the immense impact you have had on my life. Your unwavering dedication and passion for Bike the US for MS inspired me with Bike the UK for MS. Without you, I would not have continued my journey with this organization.
Your support and empathy over the last decade have been immeasurable. I am lucky to call you my friend and have been touched by your warm smile, positivity, and natural effortless guidance. You have been a role model for me, and I have big shoes to fill as we go forward with Bike the US for MS.
Thank you for everything you have done for Bike the US for MS, the MS community, and me personally. Your selfless efforts have made a positive impact on countless lives, and your legacy will live on forever. Ride Strong on your next adventure.
Kurt Rishel - Alumni & Board Member
It’s hard to believe that almost 10 years have gone by since I showed up to Yorktown as a nervous college student only to be greeted by you and the most comforting welcome. You have since greeted hundreds of cyclists the same way and immediately brought them into the Bike the US for MS family.
You were always there for everyone when they needed you the most. Whether that was magically showing up on the side of the road with popsicles or delivering pizza into the middle of nowhere Utah. You were always there!
This organization wouldn’t be what it is today with the countless hours, thousands of miles of driving, and many sleepless nights that you put in. We are forever grateful for what you have done for this organization!
Claire Dal Nogare - Alumni
So many of us experience transformations on these trips. We dip our back tires into the ocean clueless of the adventure ahead. I know you’ve spent six months of each year anchored to a phone supporting cyclists in order to make that happen. You are so loved by all. My BTUSFMS bragging right is that the Cassie Wertz was my route leader “back in 2012”. So many of us are still involved a decade later because you created an organization that is more family than numbers. The community is the proof. So many years, so many miles, friends, money raised, and memories. Thank you Cassie. We all wish you well.
Jen Vetrovs - Alumni & Board Member
My memories of Cassie are many, but they all involve the personality traits we have all come to know: openness to others, an amazing level of competence, and most importantly: KINDNESS. She was my first point of contact with BTUSFMS and her commitment to this community has always been clear. Her outreach to people living with MS, her advocacy and tireless behind the scene efforts in pulling off these tremendous rides (AND deftly dealing with issues that arise mid-journey or mid-pandemic), the guidance she has provided for all those involved in BTUSFMS’s efforts to improve the lives of people affected by MS: route leaders, riders, board members–she has always been a rock star….Grateful our paths crossed, Cassie. Thank you for your beautiful leadership. And thank you for your KINDNESS and friendship. Jen V
Emily Douglas - Alumni
I remember when I first joined Bike the US for MS, Cassie was one of my route leaders. I didn’t know a soul. I bought a bike that was not made to cycle 4000 plus miles in two and a half months, my tent had holes in it so when it rained throughout the northeast I would wake up in a literal puddle every morning. The biggest thing I remember is Cassie chatting me up the first night on the road. Making me feel welcomed and comfortable. She was a route leader extraordinaire letting me even use her cycling shoes from time to time. I went on to cycle four summers with Bike the US for MS and Bike the UK for MS and had the pleasure of working with Cassie’s throughout those years. I can’t imagine I would have stayed as long as I did if it weren’t for Cassie leading the show. Thank you my friend ❤️
Mike & Nancy Jennings - Alumni
Nancy and I have had the great fortune to have known Cassie for many years. She is an inspiration to so many people.
She always greets you with a smile as big as the Montana Sky. It is hard to try and imagine how many people’s lives she has positively impacted. We would like to thank her for everything she has done to help those living with MS. Cassie we wish you the very best in everything you do. You are always welcome at our house.
Nikki Marlowe - Cassie's Inspiration
When I was initially diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at 25 I genuinely believed I would never work again, never get married, never have a “normal” life. I also distinctly remember having a moment of realization that I was going to be okay because of the people in my life. I don’t think Cassie truly knows what it meant to me when she devoted that first summer to riding her bike to raise money for MS. To understand just how many people’s lives have been impacted by the work she’s done with Bike the US for MS is impossible. But her commitment to this organization has changed lives. The work she and BUS4MS have done gives people hope that their disease won’t be the end of all their other hopes, but rather just a little margin note in their life story.
Everyone deserves to have a Cassie in their life.
Dave Chiarello - Alumni & Board Member
I met Cassie on the 2012 Northern Tier, she was one of the route leaders that year. It was clear that she was organized, compassionate, and a natural leader. Over the next ten years I had the great fortune to become Cassie’s neighbor, friend, and a member of the Board of Directors. This gave me an inside look at how hard and selflessly she worked to build Bike the US for MS into what it is today. I have no doubt that she will be successful in whatever enterprise she decides to pursue, and Bike the US for MS will be eternally grateful for all she has accomplished!
Lina Garada - Alumni & Board Member
Bike the US for MS is where it is today thanks to the phenomenal leadership of Cassie Wertz. I remember meeting her for the first time back in 2013 planting her salad garden back in the Burg. I thought she was a sharp badass lady with an infectious smile, and caring personality. Flash forward to 2019, it was thanks to her crazy idea playing off of Bret’s dislike for NoVA in a little pub in Yorktown, VA that would spark the best Strava year to date. Thanks for 2000+ miles with the organization; support on any obstacle and question I had; and the ability and confidence to dream big. Thanks Cassie and here’s to you.
Adam Hunter - Alumni & Board Member
I struggled to think of a certain specific pithy anecdote to summarize my experiences with Cassie and didn’t come up with any one shining moment. But what really shines through when I think back on all the years spent with Cassie and with BTUSFMS is her incredible professionalism and empathy, which are honestly two things that can be difficult to combine. She was always caring and kind but also very good at establishing boundaries – both her own personal ones as well as the important and necessary boundaries between cyclists and route leaders, between cyclists, between cyclists and donors, etc. She had a very firm sense of how to be kind and to listen but also to run a tight ship, and I think that’s going to make for hard shoes to fill.
I specifically remember the way she dealt with my situation with the cyclist on the Pacific Coast who just did not want to ride on the first day, when it was already dark and late and things were going very sideways. Or the way she dealt with a sensitive complaint of harassment on one of the teams I was riding on. I would have long phone conversations with her about these and other topics and she never showed any signs of boredom or frustration but rather listened and dealt with the issue with that hard-to-find combination of compassion and a firm sense of the overarching reason why we’re riding – to cure MS. She never let these small setbacks deflect her from the overall goal. Velvet glove over an iron fist. 🙂
I look forward to seeing what she will do with her skills outside of the BTUSFMS family, I think it might be amazing things.
Robert Morris - Alumni
What is there to say about Mama Cass that hasn’t already been said by anyone who has met her?
She was the first person I met back in July 2013 as I joined the TransAm team – instantly warm and welcoming. Meeting Cassie becomes a lifetime friendship. Even if there are no BTUSFMS events planned, I will always find an excuse to drive 8 hours to Blacksburg just to hang with her and Don.
There will never be another Mama Cass!! She’s never too busy to reply to your texts – I can be thousands of miles away and text her a photo of a new sour beer, a sweet new trail, a shiny new bike – and always get a reply within seconds.
We all love her to the moon and back, and she’s the reason every BTUSFMS member will continue to be part of the family. She’s the glue that holds us all together.
I wish her all the love and luck in the world in her new ventures!
Mason Cavell - Life Long Alumni
As an original member of the band, I can assure you that the band got much, much better with Cassie’s arrival. She somehow managed to raise the standard of professionalism while preserving the spirit and culture of the organization, for which I’m forever grateful. I’ve admired her creative brilliance, steady pragmatism, and her literal and figurative endurance in her various roles with Bike the US for MS, and, let’s get real, anybody who can put up with Don for a decade deserves a medal. I’m excited to see where her talent takes her next (note: come be my boss please), although I know her legacy with riders and all the people we’ve met along will not fade anytime soon. Congrats Cass, you’ve put in a hell of a shift!
Marilyn Madeline - Alumni
Cass is a wonderful human and true gift to this world. She is caring, incredibly innovative and wickedly smart. Cass has unparalleled resilience and grace. I am lucky to call her my friend.
Tailwinds
by Alumni Coordinators - Kelly Wolf & Neil McCallum
As Bike the US for MS Alumni, we have all had the pleasure of interacting with Cassie. Whether it was before, during or after the ride, it was always nice knowing that Cassie was just a phone call away and she could be counted on when the “stuff” hit the fan. Anyone who has been involved with the organization can quickly see how much she cares about the cyclists and the cause. BTUSFMS has grown and expanded exponentially largely due to the hard work and dedication Cassie has provided over the years. She will be missed dearly, but never forgotten.
Please enjoy our take on the name of our fearless leader and the many amazing qualities to describe her!
C Caring, Compassionate, creative
A Ambitious, approachable, awesome
S Supportive , strong, sensational
S Savvy, selfless, spirited, steadfast, strong, sensational
I Insightful, intelligent, impactful, imaginative, inspiring
E Extremely Organized, encouraging, empathetic
W Welcoming, warmhearted, wise, witty, well-spoken
E Energetic, empathetic, encouraging, engaging
R Resourceful, reliable, resilient
T Tenacious, thoughtful, talented, tough, trustworthy
Z Zestful, zealous, zany
17 Responses
Cassie, It’s people like you that make this world a better place. Thanks for all you do and my sincere best wishes wherever you go!
Cassie!
You will be so missed! Cannot believe you are starting a new chapter as you’ve always been the touchpoint for many, many projects, miles and riders. Darla and I send our love and blessings as you embark on this next Journey. Please, if you are ever in Pensacola, know that you have a home here.
Chris and Darla
Awe, Cassie.. so excited for what your future holds… thank you for all you do and your incredible past heroic voyages you planned and participated in for Those living with MS .. cheers and only happy vibes your way 💋🍾🍾🍾
The organization will certainly not be the same without you. Good luck in your next chapter as I am sure you will do great. God bless!
Cassie! You are one in a million. Thank you for your warmth and generosity and always being so supportive (even when I feel like I’m asking the silliest questions on earth). You are a true light and I wish you all the happiness in the world on your next adventure.
Thank you Cassie for inspiring us all to “push beyond our comfort zone”. Your dedication & enthusiasm for the cause is infectious. You have helped so many in so many ways. We appreciate the fact that you were always their for us…..as a rider as well as a leader. All the best in your future endeavors.
Cassie WOW… Best Wishes on your new adventure. I met you in Fredericksburg, VA. May 8, 2022 with the Atlantic Coast Team. Thank you for your smiles, support and most of all for what you have contributed to people with MS. The 2022 Pacific Coast BUSMS gave me new friends, places I had never seen and the start of a new life adventure for me. Thank you for All you had done to make this a better place for so many. BEST Summer !!!… Truly Grateful, katharyn p.
Cassie without your dedication and hard work BUSFMS wouldn’t exist. Thank you.
Ever since day one it was clear the org was in great hands and the success – dollars raised, community built, patients helped – just speaks to that louder than any words.
Best of luck in your next steps.
Wow is all I can say. I’ve done the Southern Tier and the East Coast and without Cassie it wouldn’t have been as much fun. She is a cheerleader, supporter, and I will always remember that she always knew my name.
We will all miss you, but whatever you do you will be successful.
Dick
Cassie, your leadership and dedication has made BTUSFMS the successful charity organization it is today. The kindness and caring you’ve directed to each and every rider has been greatly appreciated and we will never forget you. No matter what new challenges and endeavors you undertake, we know you will be successful.
Oh no! I’m feeling lost, one of my mentors for the MS Alliance of Virginia, a voice that always makes me smile, a calm in my storms. Finding passionate, understanding people in the world of MS is challenging. Cassie has it all and I will miss you.
Great job Cassie! You helped a lot of souls. Good luck and enjoy!
My annual email from Cassie when the riders were passing through the Twin Cities was my favorite! Finding people with MS for your organization to help with both finanancial assistance and projects, serving lunch to the group and meeting all of the amazing people! Cassie – you were my favorite! Always so kind, easy to work with and organized! You will be amazing wherever your journey takes you! Thank you for giving your big heart to people with MS! Cheers to a new adventure! Heather Svenson/MS Society
Cassie, you were there for me with all my “silly” questions prior to my 2022 Trans Am ride. You were a difference maker for me in my prep for the trip. You were and continue to be one of my fondest memories of the experience. You WILL BE MISSED not only by me but by so many!!!! All the best in what you elect to do next.
Cassie, what can I say that hasn’t been said already. You are a gift to this world and this organization. You provide guidance and support to all. Your smile warms the room. I am grateful and honored to have met you and traveled around and through this country with you as the leader. Best of luck to you and your future goals. I will always remember you.
So glad to have met you on all our rides! If you’re ever over in the UK, we’d love to see you! Best of luck for the future.
Oh Cassie! You are the best! I was always so impressed by your quick responses. Did you ever take a day off? You will definitely be missed. Thanks for all of your hard work.