Wrench Science mechanic in time of need

Peter Togasaki, a 26-year-old bike builder at California-based Wrench Science, has recently been diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. Togasaki, who's been a bike mechanic for seven years, had been feeling ill for weeks, but never expected to be diagnosed with cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

Togasaki is facing a battle that will span approximately six months, receiving intermittent chemotherapy treatments in an Oakland hospital with the possibility of a bone-marrow transplant. Togasaki, who's also a part-time student at UC Berkeley, has the support of his nearby friends and family, but is also hopeful that others in the cycling community can pitch in. "I have a 2006 Triumph Speed Four motorcycle that's up for sale," he says. "Cancer kind of hits you in the pocketbook, too."

"We're hoping to rally around Peter and raise enough money to cover his medical/living expenses during this time of need so that he can focus on beating his cancer," says Tim Medina, Wrench Science's CEO. "We want him back as soon as he's able."

Togasaki is known as a quiet, efficient worker with a passion for all things two-wheeled, an insatiable appetite for lasagna, and a dream of someday racing motorcycles, according to his workmates.

Contributions to the Peter Togasaki Cancer Fund can be made electronically via a special page on Wrench Science's website.