The third annual Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride is set to happen next weekend.
The event will begin at 9 a.m. on May 11, as awareness and funds are raised for multiple myeloma, a little-known and incurable blood cancer.
“The imperative to raise awareness and funds for myeloma is a matter of life and death,” said Martine Elias, Myeloma Canada CEO.
“Awareness for earlier diagnosis and investments in new and innovative drug therapies are crucial to ensuring that people with myeloma have the best outcomes possible. That’s why events like the Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride are so crucial. They raise awareness at the local and national level and vital funds for novel treatments to improve the lives of Canadians impacted by myeloma and move us even closer to a cure.”
Every day, 11 Canadians are diagnosed with myeloma. Myeloma is not well known within the general public, signs and symptoms are often dismissed and so diagnosis can take months or even years, according to Myeloma Canada.
"Increasing awareness for myeloma is the first step to ensure a timely diagnosis and the hope of a better prognosis. Unfortunately, delays in diagnosis can lead to complications that may negatively impact quality of life and survival," states a Myeloma Canada media release.
The Myeloma Canada Ride will be taking place in six Canadian locations this spring: Red Deer County on May 11; Vankleek Hill, Ont., on May 11; Richmond, B.C. on May 25; Niagara Region, Ont., on May 26; Sudbury, Ont., on June 2; and Halifax, N.S. on June 2.
A virtual option is also available for those unable to participate at one of the in-person events or who wish to create their own cycling challenge. The collective national fundraising goal of the Myeloma Canada Ride is $300,000.
The Red Deer County ride has a set fundraising goal of $20,000. There will be two routes to choose from: a shorter, more leisurely 30- to 40-kilometre route and a more challenging 60- to 90-kilometre route.
To register or donate, visit www.myelomaride.ca.
Funds raised through the Myeloma Canada Ride are invested in curing and preventing myeloma through investment in Canadian research, accelerating equitable access to the best care, and improving lives by empowering and supporting all Canadians impacted by this devastating disease.
Myeloma Canada is the only national charitable organization created by, and for, Canadians impacted by multiple myeloma.