The 2nd annual Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride: Bike to Beat Myeloma is set for May 13 at 9 a.m. at Spruce View Hall.
Red Deer County is one of seven municipalities across Canada participating in the challenge to raise $300,000 nationally.
“For countless Canadians, the diagnosis of myeloma is often long and difficult, often taking months, even years,” says Martine Elias, executive director of Myeloma Canada, in a statement.
“Events like the Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride are key for raising both, awareness for the disease and critical funds that enable us to keep investing in life-saving research so that a cure may be found.”
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Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is the second most common form of blood cancer, and affects a type of immune cell called the plasma cell, found in the bone marrow.
While there is currently no cure, people with myeloma are living longer and better lives thanks to recent breakthroughs in treatment. To find a cure, more funding and research are needed.
Bev Dunn, 65, of Calgary, was diagnosed with myeloma in 2018, and went into remission following extensive chemotherapy in preparation for a stem cell transplant.
Grateful for the medical treatments, Bev is gearing up to participate in the Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride. Mayor Ken Johnston will also be in attendance to help kick off the event.
“I choose to focus on the positive. I know several myeloma patients that have lived with the disease for over 20 years. That gives me a lot of hope for the future,” Dunn said.
“I know that I will eventually relapse, but I am confident that there will be treatment options available to me when that time comes.”
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Red Deer County Myeloma Canada Ride is open to cyclists of varying levels, with a shorter, more leisurely 30 to 40-km route, and a more challenging 70-plus km route. To register or donate, visit www.myelomaride.ca.
A virtual option is also available for those who are unable to participate at the in-person events, or who wish to create their own cycling challenge.
