On May 22, Tour de TC 2023 kicked off in Healdsburg, California, with six rides meandering through California Wine Country. Its mission: to raise both funds and awareness of Be The Match, by removing financial barriers and giving hope to those in need of a blood stem cell transplant. This life-saving treatment has the capability to cure up to 75 different blood cancers, such as leukemia, as well as treat blood disorders such as sickle cell disease.
In 2021, Tour de TC is hoping to raise $300,000 to help fund patient assistance grants, research to improve transplant outcomes and grow the Be The Match Registry®. Up to 12 cycling enthusiasts will join alongside transplant recipients, donors, physicians, and other Be The Match supporters in six exciting and scenic rides across the country. In 2022, Be The Match Foundation provided an incredible $6.1 million in grants enabling 2,320 patients in need of financial assistance to receive the help they need. In 2020, Tour de TC not only raised $134,131, but 27 cyclists also took part and rode 2,915 miles, visiting 15 transplant centres.
Founder of the Tour de TC cycling program Bob Falkenberg said, “I am alive today because a blood stem cell transplant from a willing donor cured my leukemia. I started biking when I first began my healing journey post-transplant and quickly realized I could use my passion to help others. I know there are too many patients who do not have access to this lifesaving treatment – and with more funding, we can remove many of the barriers that exist and help save more lives.”
Bob received a leukemia diagnosis leading to a blood stem cell transplant in 2009. He progressed from barely being able to walk to cycling in 100-mile races. To inspire hospital staff and patients, Bob would cycle to fundraising events for the Be The Match organization and stop by transplant centers, demonstrating surviving and thriving after a transplant was possible.
“We are so grateful for Bob’s vision and his invitation to others to offer hope to patients in need through this bike tour. He is an inspiration and his efforts have benefited so many other patients and their families,” said Joy King, Chief Advancement Officer of Be The Match and Executive Director of the Be The Match Foundation. “We expect Tour de TC to be bigger than ever this year and are excited to offer rides of varying levels so anyone can participate and join this powerful movement.”