Cross-Country Cyclists Visit UAMS Cancer Institute

By Ben Boulden

 Members of the 4K for Cancer bicycle team made a stop at the UAMS Cancer Institute on June 24.

4K for Cancer, a program of the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults , is a cross-country bike ride designed to connect, inspire and educate young adults and their families affected by cancer. Divided into four teams, bicyclists ages 18-25 began their 4,000-plus mile trek together in Baltimore and will finish on the same day in Seattle; Portland, Ore.; San Francisco; and San Diego. The entire trip takes 70 days.

“Every day we meet more and more people who inspire us,” said San Diego team leader and cancer survivor James Baden. “We’re there to support them, but the support they give us is even greater.”

Scheduled stops along the way allow the team members to share their story and learn about advancements in cancer research, treatment and advocacy across the country. One of those stops brought Baden and his team of 25 fellow cyclists to the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute on June 24.

While at the Cancer Institute, the group participated in a Seed of Hope token ceremony in honor and memory of their loved ones with cancer. The Seed of Hope ceremony is offered to all Cancer Institute patients when they reach a milestone in their treatment. Participants toss one seed-shaped token into a sculpture in the Cancer Instiute’s atrium, symbolically leaving hope behind for future patients. They also take one token with them to keep or give away.

Each participant sets a goal of raising at least $4,500 for the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. In 2012, riders raised about $500,000. This year the overall goal for all four teams is $800,000.

Those interested in following the San Diego team’s progress can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4kForCancerTeamSanDiego , follow them on Twitter @4Ksandiego or read their team blog at www.4ksandiego.wordpress.com .