Team Billy History

Billy Grey was diagnosed with a brain tumor, glioblastoma multiforme, in 1999 and so began his fight. Our family was quickly educated on the grim realities of the lack of medications, research and hope for those afflicted with this fatal illness.

Billy never once lost his passion and spirit for life. He was an exceptional athlete- whether it was hockey, baseball or any sport. Billy attended Albany Academy where he grew scholastically and was a friend to all. He was honored with the Simmons Award at the Academy upon completion of the sixth grade and was posthumously granted an honorary degree for completion of middle school. In honor of Billy, the school established a scholarship in his name for the seventh grade student who exemplifies the true character of an Academy middle school student.

Through the National Brain Tumor Society, Billy's father, Ken, was able to raise funds for research at their annual bike ride in Massachusetts. Each year others joined Ken at dawn for the day long trip and bike ride. The idea to start a ride in New York became a reality in 2005 and through the generosity of the city of Saratoga Springs, the New York State Park, the Saratoga County Troopers, Marshall and Sterling and many friends, we have been able to offer three lengths of bike rides in Saratoga County.  A three mile walk was added in 2006.

Although Billy died on July 13, 2001, just two weeks shy of his thirteenth birthday, his name carries on in the fight for funding.

Billy would have wanted his struggles to have meaning and make a difference for those diagnosed with a brain tumor. As a testament to his courage, on December 30, 2001, Billy's close friend, Devin, and Billy's father Ken had the honor of carrying the Olympic Torch in Saratoga Springs in his memory.