As we prepare for the upcoming Million Dollar Bike Ride (MDBR), our excitement is unmatched. Since 2015, the Lymphangiomatosis & Gorham's Disease Alliance (LGDA), LGD Alliance Europe, and the Lymphatic Malformation Institute (LMI) have united to participate in this significant event, hosted by UPenn Orphan Disease Center. This collaboration has not only built a vibrant community but has also driven substantial advancements in CLA research. In 2024, we reached a milestone by raising over $1 million for CLA research, all made possible by your unwavering support.
Making a Difference Through Research
Together, we have financed crucial studies for conditions like Generalized Lymphatic Anomaly, Central Conducting Lymphatic Anomaly, Gorham-Stout Disease, and Kaposiform Lymphangiomatosis Anomaly. These funds have expanded our knowledge and paved the way for groundbreaking treatments. This year, motivated by the impact we’ve created, we aim to further our reach and continue our research endeavors.
How You Can Get Involved
The MDBR offers various participation options, allowing anyone to join, whether in Philadelphia or from afar. Here’s how you can register and participate:
In-Person Cyclist - Fundraising Optional: Ride alongside us through Philadelphia’s scenic routes.
Million Mile Walker: Log your miles on foot, contributing without cycling.
Virtual Cyclist: Cycle at your leisure, wherever you are, and still be part of the excitement.
Volunteer: Help out on the day and see the event from a different perspective.
Please note, there’s a $10 fee for on-site registration material collection on the event day. To simplify, LGDA will collect materials for all CLA Team Riders on June 13th. Do not select the option for the fee. Ensure you deselect the "Create Fundraising Page" option during registration on the MDBR website, as our team has a dedicated fundraising system.
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 can't participate but still want to support, we gladly accept direct donations. Every contribution is significant and accelerates us toward our goals. You can donate by visiting our website. Your generosity is vital in advancing research and enhancing treatments.
See Your Impact
Your participation contributes to significant change. We invite you to explore the list of international scientists awarded grants due to your donations. These grants have catalyzed innovative research and opened new treatment avenues for rare lymphatic diseases.
We Ride Together
This event is more than a bike ride; it's a movement toward a future free from the constraints of rare diseases. Whether you ride, walk, volunteer, or donate, your involvement is key. Join us as we pedal closer to our goals and make this year’s MDBR the most significant yet. Together, we can make a million-dollar difference!
Let’s unite for change, hope, and the future of rare disease research. See you at the Million Dollar Bike Ride!
