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TUCSON - Burn pits are designated spots on military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan used dispose of waste and toxins. They are constantly burning.

Emilye Rainwater believes she contracted leukemia after being exposed to these chemicals in Iraq.

Inspired by Rainwater and others battling leukemia and lymphoma, Stephen Hardy decided to make a difference.

Cycling is Hardy's hobby, he even teaches classes.

"I enjoy just helping people get in better shape physically and mentally," said Hardy.

His hobby has turned into cycling for a cause. He's training to ride 100 miles to raise money for leukemia and lymphoma.

At the Arizona Cancer Center, Rainwater is receiving treatment for leukemia.

"The doctor found a difference on one of my chromosomes that showed my leukemia as a secondary leukemia most likely caused by chemical exposure. The only time I have been exposed to chemicals has been on my two deployments so that kind of tied it together for us," said Rainwater.

Rainwater came home from war alive two times but now that's she's home, she's fighting for her life.

"Insurgents are constantly shooting at the base hoping to hit anything that they can, so you accept those risks and you do your job anyway. It hadn't occurred to me that I could be exposed to chemicals that could make me sick," said Rainwater.

When Hardy read Rainwater's story in the paper, he jumped on the computer to ask her if he could dedicate his ride to her.

"She's a relatively young lady in the prime of her life. Her future is ahead of her and doing what she's doing for the benefit of the country, to me she's a hero," said Hardy.

"I wasn't even supposed to survive the first round of chemo and here I am still today. I think every Christian prays to be used by God in some way and you know maybe this is the purpose of my disease so that I can help get the word out," said Rainwater.

Rainwater may not know her fate but she knows she's gained a friend in a stranger who is inspired by her courage, and pedaling for her future.

Rainwater was suppose to deploy again this spring, but was diagnosed with leukemia on November 11th, Veteran's Day.

For more information Hardy's ride and how you can donate go to http://pages.teamintraining.org/dm/ambbr10/shardyjppi