We’re getting Closer to Free – thanks to these employees

Every year, hundreds of Yale New Haven Health employees participate in the Closer to Free (CTF) ride to support Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center. Meet some of these inspiring employees and consider joining them for the Sept. 7 CTF event as a rider, volunteer or supporter. All YNHHS employee riders pay a registration fee of just $50 for adults and $25 for students/youth (a 50 percent discount). Use the code EMPLOYEE24 and provide your employee ID number at registration. Register and learn more at rideclosertofree.org.

Why I ride: Alienne Salleroli

Assistant patient services manager, Smilow multispecialty clinics

I love my role as marshal co-captain because it is a way to give back to our patients in a very unique way. It is an extension of my nursing practice and that desire to make things better for our patients. I also get to work with Shelley Jolie, my amazing co-captain, whom I am blessed to call a friend. I have spent over 20 years in the cycling community and now I get to combine my love of nursing and cycling for a great cause. I also do this to honor my parents, both of whom passed away from cancer many years ago. The funds we raise help patients just like them, so someday someone else’s children will get to keep their parents by their side. If we save one life, it’s all worth it.