The year 2020 was when Floyd Bump got sick. It was also the year he bought a side-by-side—a black and neon-green accented Polaris RZR.

Floyd had always wanted one, so when he was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer at the age of 34, he made the purchase.

In between treatments at UVM Cancer Center in Burlington, Floyd rode his side-by-side around Parishville, N.Y., where he’d lived his whole life. Friends and family often joined. When his health declined and he could no longer ride, he asked his mother, Lois Bump, to keep the tradition going.

That was the start of Trip’s Rip—an annual side-by-side ride and fundraiser held in honor of Floyd AKA “Trip” Bump. The first ride took place in July of 2021, the summer after Trip passed away. That year and ever since, more than 150 people gather at Parishville Firemen’s Hall and ride to the town cemetery, where Trip’s family leaves flowers on his grave.

Then the group returns to the hall to enjoy a live band, home-cooked food and a raffle, and share stories about Trip. “I’m always overwhelmed by everyone telling me how much they cared for him,” says Lois. “I’m teary-eyed most of the day.”

Trip's Rip raises money for causes that support cancer care and community needs: high school scholarships, care packages for cancer patients, hospice services. Floyd would have wanted that, says Lois. “He was a giver.”

This year's event took place on July 26, 2025; the money raised will support the UVM Cancer Center's Clinical Trials Office, co-led by Steven Ades, MD, Trip’s doctor. “Floyd would be happy if he knew he was supporting a clinical trial of Dr. Ades' that might save someone's life,” says Lois. “Not every doctor goes above and beyond like he did.”

Trip’s Rip is always an emotional experience for the Bump family: Floyd is one of several they’ve lost to cancer. And though this year’s event will be the last, the family will still ride together to honor Floyd. “My son was a big part of my world,” Lois says. “When I'm out there riding, it's like he's with me—especially if a dragonfly lands on me and stays the whole ride. It's a sign.”

To give to UVMCC in honor of Floyd Bump, visit give.uvmhealth.org/Trips5thRip.