Cancer Fighting Cowboy Rides Through Town

Monday, November 26th 2007, 9:00 pm

By: News On 6

Lots of things have been seen traveling down Route 66 from Harleys to classic cars. But, you may have seen something a little out of the ordinary along the Mother Road on Monday. Just outside of Claremore, The News On 6â€™s anchor Craig Day reports there was a cowboy riding with a cause.

In our fast paced, hustle and bustle world, there are plenty of people in a hurry. Then there are folks like Ezra Cooley. The world is a better place thanks to people like Ezra Cooley. About a year and a half ago, Ezra's Expedition started in Chico, California.

"I went all the way across Nevada, then I went into Utah, through the desert there, and into Colorado,â€ said Ezra Cooley, the Cancer Fighting Cowboy.

He then rode past the Rockies all the way to Manhattan. Now, he's headed to Texas, Mexico, Central and South America, Australia, Africa and Europe.

He hopes to be the first man ever to ride around the world on horseback. But, he's also a Cowboy with a cause.

"I just thought it would be a great idea. Ride around the world and see God's beautiful country. Now after meeting with the kids with cancer and everything, I kind of think it's what God wants me to do, is ride around the world and tell people about them. They really need a lot of help,â€ said Ezra Cooley.

Ezra's Expedition is designed to raise awareness and funds for the National Children's Cancer Society.

"They're just so beautiful and they are trying so hard to live,â€ said Ezra Cooley, Cancer Fighting Cowboy.

His journey has taken him 7,000 miles so far.

Ezra's Expedition will eventually take him 30,000 miles. How long that will take him is anyone's guess. But, his best estimate is that he'll be in the saddle for another eight years. There will be the elements, and long days in the saddle. But, Ezra says it's nothing compared to a child's battle with cancer. He's inspired by the children he helps and his faith.

"I couldn't be here right now if it wasn't for the good Lord. God is the only reason why I've been able to conquer what I've been able to conquer,â€ said Ezra Cooley, Cancer Fighting Cowboy.

And the praying cowboy and his California horses, Red and Striker, have more to conquer as they slowly get closer to their goal of crossing the world, helping kids and making a difference.

Ezra hopes to raise $ 1 million to help kids with cancer. He needs individual donors and corporate sponsors.

Watch the video: Cowboy On A Mission Against Cancer

To learn more about Ezra's Expedition, click here.

For information about the National Children's Cancer Society, click here.