SCRANTON -- In 1987, Randolph Westphal`s life changed forever.
The German man was diagnosed with cancer and given six to 12 months to live.
He decided then and there to make a change.
"When I do what I like to do, maybe I can survive and after 132,000 miles, I be here!' he said from Comfort Suites in Scranton.
Westphal is from Germany, but his journey brought him to northeastern Pennsylvania this week.
Since starting his bike ride 26 years ago to raise cancer awareness, Westphal has seen many countries and had his share of trouble.
He has been hit by cars and hospitalized with serious injuries, but none of that has stopped him.
He has been staying at Comfort Suites in Scranton and said the support from this area has been great, but the recent winter storm has made things tough.
"Right now I see nothing, just snow and rain and fog," he laughed.
Westphal plans to continue his ride to Canada and he had a message for those who wonder while he still does this.
"Don`t sit in the corner and wait for your death. Open your eyes and lift up your head. The world is beautiful!"
Westphal said he has undergone a total of 28 cancer related surgeries.
He relies on donations to continue his journey.
The Comfort Suites in Scranton gave him his room for free.