The more than 15 active members of Dallas County Bikers for Christ had talked among themselves about organizing a charity ride in the past, so when they learned one of their own had been diagnosed with cancer, they acted quickly to make their plan come to fruition.

More than 50 bikers from across the state came to Selma Saturday to ride in support of Bikers for Christ member Cindy Anderson, who was diagnosed with cancer last February.

The bikers drove an 87-mile path that started and ended at the Old National Guard Armory on Dallas Avenue in support of both Anderson and the American Cancer Society.

“This event means a lot because Cindy is a part of our family,” Dallas County Bikers for Christ Elder John Treherne said. “Seeing everybody come out here and show up for this shows that she has a big extended family, bigger than she even knows. It’s great how many people have showed up because they love her and want to help her. It’s just awesome.”

The money raised from the event, which cost $25 to ride in and $100 to sponsor, will be divided between Anderson and the American Cancer Society. An additional 20 percent of funds raised by area vendors and T-shirt sales will also go to Anderson.

“A lot medical bills and stuff are outweighing her financially, so a lot of the money we raise here today will go to help her with that,” Treherne said.

Bikers for Christ member Angie Washburn said the group hopes to make the event, dubbed “Ride for Cancer, Save the Tatas,” an annual event, supporting a different cause and a different community member each year.

She said Saturday’s first-ever installment of the event surpassed her expectations.

“I know there were several other motorcycle charity events occurring in the state, and it being as hot as it is, this definitely exceeded my expectations with regards to the number of bikers and spectators here,” Washburn said. “This is a great way to raise community awareness.”

Gloria Holliday, who attended Saturday’s event, said she, too, was impressed with the ride’s turnout.

“I came out because I love Cindy,” Holliday, who is cancer-free after two separate battles with cancer, said. “Everybody loves Cindy. Look at all the people who came out for her.”

Treherne said he hoped everyone who came out to the ride saw the importance of coming together to help those in need.

“I hope they see God, because he gets all the credit for everything that goes on, and I hope they see the things we can accomplish when we come together to help someone going through tough times,” Treherne said. “Together, we can accomplish a lot.”