Cyclists find relief in Rochester during fundraiser
Rochester’s Town Common was one stop for the 2,200 cyclists in the 29th annual “Bike MS: Cape Cod Getaway” this weekend.
The ride, held on June 29 and 30, raised funds for multiple sclerosis research. Multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable, chronic disease, interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body.
In front of the First Congregational Church participants stopped for water and shade before continuing to Mass Maritime Academy in Bourne to rest for the night. The church provided the final rest stop of the first day.
Volunteers Michelle Blum and Barbara Spinney directed riders into the church parking lot with orange pom-poms. The two, whose parents live in Wareham, had words of encouragement for the riders as they arrived.
Cyclists left Boston on Saturday and ended the ride in Provincetown on Sunday.
Spokesman Steven Sookikian, of the Greater New England Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, said riders raised $2.6 million. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society provides education, support, and services for those living with the disease.
Financial assistance and home modifications are made possible through money raised. Also, the society hires professional caregivers to offer respite services, Sookikian said. The service allows family members caring for loved ones an opportunity to take care of themselves, he said.
Riders had two routes to choose from, a 75-mile race or the 100-mile race that passed through Rochester.
Dubbed the “century” by riders, Sookikian noted the 100-mile race attracts dedicated cyclists.
“The riders in that race are generally more serious about cycling and are more experienced,” he said.
To enter the race, participants raised a minimum of $500. About 50 riders, who wore “I Ride with MS” jerseys, currently have the disease. To accommodate those riders additional services were available along the route.
During the year, eight fundraising bicycle rides are scheduled throughout New England. Sookikian noted in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, 19,000 people currently live with the disease.
