Cycling for Cindy raises funds for salivary gland cancer
Cyclists, walkers and runners alike took to the Gordons Pond trail near Rehoboth Beach Sept. 25 to honor the life of Cindy Felicetti, who passed away in January at age 51 of salivary gland cancer. Prior to her passing, Felicetti took part in a clinical trial for treatment of salivary gland cancer, and she wanted to raise money for continued research on the disease.
Felicetti’s close friends Donna Jaconi, Pat Bradley, Rosemary Evernham and Maria Howell created Cycling for Cindy in order to raise money in her memory. The Sept. 25 event raised over $14,000, which will be donated to University of Pennsylvania Research and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Felicetti served with the Philadelphia Police Department for her entire career. She began at the police academy when she was 20 and was a bicycle cop in her early career. She later went on to serve in the Philadelphia Narcotic Strike Force, which was a dangerous job that involved a lot of takedowns, according to her best friend, Donna Jaconi. Felicetti finished her career dealing with in organized crime.
Jaconi was friends with Felicetti for 35 years. “She was a tremendous person,” Jaconi said. “We met early in our careers. Cops are true blue. We hang together because we can share stories that others don’t want to hear. We have an alliance.”
Felicetti is survived by her wife of 28 years, Mary Kuchinsky. Kuchinsky and Felicetti met on the Philadelphia police force. Kuchinsky served as a detective and retired in June 2021. Together, they shared a home in Long Neck where they enjoyed the beach, boating and fishing together. Kuchinsky participated in the cycling event with the dog they shared together, Nittany – named after Felicetti’s beloved Penn State Nittany Lions.
“It means so much to be here,” Kuchinsky said. “It’s just incredible. The outpouring of support is incredible. It means a lot – more than anything.”
The event drew supporters from all over, including family, friends and many police force members from various areas, including Philadelphia, Rehoboth and Lewes. Officer David Aponte, who worked with Felicetti, came to the event from Philadelphia. “She was such a nice person,” he said. “She had a wonderful personality. When I heard about this, I had to be here. I just couldn't miss this.”
After completing the trail ride, participants were treated to a lunch on the beach at Gordons Pond to close out the day. To donate or learn more, go to cyclingforcindy.com.
