About 30 cyclists raised more than $34,000 to help find a cure for myeloma at the inaugural Myeloma Canada Ride: Bike to Beat Myeloma, in Red Deer County on May 15.
The local ride, that started at Spruce View Hall, exceeded its $30,000 fundraising goal, as did the national organization that hoped to raise $100,000, but ended up with almost $184,000.
More than 345 cyclists took part in first ever Myeloma Canada Rides in Canada, including events in the Niagara Region and Richmond, B.C.
Martine Elias, executive director of Myeloma Canada, attended the local ride, as well as Mayor Ken Johnston.
Half a dozen members of the Elbow Valley Cycle Club also volunteered to repair bikes and guide cyclists. Cubs from the 25th Red Deer Scouts Group came out to lend a hand, and Spruce View and District Lions Club made a generous donation.
Ten Canadians are diagnosed each day with multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, which is the second most common form of blood cancer. Despite its prevalence, not many people are aware of the disease that affects the plasma cell found in the bone marrow.
Funds raised will support scientific advancements and research initiatives to enable Canadians with myeloma to live longer and better lives, and hopefully lead to a cure.
To learn more, or to donate, visit: myeloma.ca.