As we gear up for another exhilarating year of the Million Dollar Bike Ride (MDBR), our hearts are filled with anticipation and pride. Since 2015, the Lymphangiomatosis & Gorham's Disease Alliance (LGDA), LGD Alliance Europe, and the Lymphatic Malformation Institute (LMI) have joined forces to partake in this monumental event hosted by UPenn Orphan Disease Center. Our united efforts have not only fostered a spirited community but have also significantly propelled research into rare diseases. With over $970,000 raised so far, we are on the brink of surpassing an incredible milestone of $1 million in fundraising, all thanks to supporters like you!
Making a Difference Through Research
Our collective efforts have funded critical research projects for conditions such as Generalized Lymphatic Anomaly, Central Conducting Lymphatic Anomaly, Gorham-Stout Disease, and Kaposiform Lymphangiomatosis Anomaly. These funds have broadened our understanding and laid the groundwork for innovative treatments. This year, as we continue our quest, we are inspired by the impact we've made and are driven to expand our reach even further.
How You Can Get Involved
Participation in the MDBR is flexible with options for everyone, regardless of where you are located. You can join us physically in Philadelphia or virtually from anywhere around the globe. Here’s how you can register and participate:
- In-Person Cyclist - Fundraising Optional: Ride with us through the scenic routes of Philadelphia.
- Million Mile Walker: Make your miles count without having to ride.
- Virtual Cyclist: Cycle at your own pace, in your own space, and be part of the excitement.
- Volunteer: Lend a hand and experience the event from a unique perspective.
Please note, there is a $10 fee for picking up registration materials on the day of the event. However, to make things easier for our participants, LGDA will be handling the pickup of materials for all CLA Team Riders on June 7th. During your registration on the MDBR website, remember to deselect the "Create Fundraising Page" option as we have a separate system set up for fundraising which allows us to directly thank our donors and keep you updated on how your contributions are making a difference.
Fundraising Made Easy
We encourage all participants to set up a fundraising page using our Tool Kit. It’s straightforward: plan your event, set up your page on our designated site by selecting "I Want To Fundraise For This", and start your fundraising journey. This not only simplifies the process but also maximizes the impact of your efforts by funneling all donations directly through our system.
Direct Donations
If you are unable to participate but still wish to contribute, we warmly welcome direct donations. Every contribution makes a significant impact and helps us reach our goals faster. You can donate by visiting our website. Your generosity is crucial in helping us advance research and improve treatments.
See Your Impact
Your involvement goes beyond just participation; it's about making real change. We invite you to view the list of international scientists who have been awarded grants thanks to your contributions. These grants have fueled pioneering research and opened new pathways for treating and understanding rare lymphatic diseases.
We Ride Together
This event is more than just a bike ride; it's a powerful movement toward a future where rare diseases no longer stand in the way of living life to the fullest. Whether you ride, walk, volunteer, or donate, your support is crucial. Join us as we pedal closer to our goal and make this year’s MDBR the most impactful yet. Together, we can make a million-dollar difference!
Let’s ride together for change, hope, and the future of rare disease research. See you at the Million Dollar Bike Ride!
