Connecticut Challenge Contributes $300,000 to Yale Cancer Center
For Immediate Release
Date: 12/8/05
Contact:
Bob Mazzone, Connecticut Challenge: (203) 353-7690
Renee Gaudette, Yale Cancer Center: 203-785-2143
The organizers of the 2006 Connecticut Challenge, a charity bike ride benefiting cancer survivors, presented a check for $300,000 to the Yale Cancer Center recently during a ceremony in New Haven. The check was presented by Connecticut Challenge founders and organizers, John Ragland of Westport and Jeff Keith of Fairfield, to the Director of the Yale Cancer Center and Westport resident, Dr. Richard L. Edelson.
“The enthusiasm of the riders, volunteers, and supporters at this year's CTC ride was an inspiration. Their unyielding commitment to support cancer survivors in the state of Connecticut will result in specialized care for this increasing population. We are delighted that Bike Across America has chosen to contribute to the high-quality care provided at Yale Cancer Center through the creation of an adult survivorship clinic and continuing support of survivorship programs,” said Edelson.
Proceeds from the Connecticut Challenge will directly support the establishment of the Connecticut Challenge Adult Survivorship Clinic at Yale Cancer Center, Connecticut's first such resource. This clinic is scheduled to open in 2006 and will place Connecticut among a very few states with a comprehensive facility dedicated solely to meeting the growing needs of cancer survivors.
“We were elated to see the incredible support given to the Connecticut Challenge in its first year and pleased to present this check to Yale Cancer Center. Our 200 participants came from 11 states, including riders from 32 Connecticut towns. Clearly, the message we are sending about addressing the vital needs of cancer survivors is being heard. We are excited to team up with Yale Cancer Center in this quest and look forward to increasing participation and fundraising in 2006,” said John Ragland.
About the Connecticut Challenge
The Connecticut Challenge is a non-competitive bike ride to raise money for the Connecticut Challenge Adult Survivorship Clinic at Yale Cancer Center. Riders can register for a 25, 50 or 100-mile ride and raise funds from personal sponsors to support their efforts. The 2006 Connecticut Challenge will take place on August 26th. People interested in riding, volunteering or contributing to the 2006 event are encouraged to visit www.ctchallenge.org.