ESSEX — Nonprofit Changing Futures is hosting a charity bike ride to raise funds for essential cystic fibrosis research. At this community event on Saturday, cyclists of all levels of experience are welcome to participate. Registration is $65 and Changing Futures asks that all those planning on attending sign up via its website changingfuturesnow.org at least one week in advance for insurance commitments.
The scenic ride through Essex will begin at Woodman’s restaurant, at 119 Main St. The course is 15 miles long but will be looped twice for a 30-mile ride and looped thrice for a 45-mile ride. For seasoned cyclists, the 45-mile ride begins at 9 a.m. The 30-mile ride starts at 10 a.m., and the 15-mile ride starts at 11 a.m. For each of the rides, check-in begins half an hour earlier than the aforementioned start time.
After the ride, bikers will return to Woodman’s, which has been family owned and operated since 1914 and is known for its local seafood. There, live music, a food truck serving lobster rolls and fried clams for purchase, and a 50/50 raffle will be available for participants and guests to enjoy.
All funds raised by the bike ride benefits cystic fibrosis research led by Dr. Steven Freedman. As medicinal advancements continue to extend life expectancies for those with CF, new challenges emerge.
The organization’s stated goal is to improve “the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis, by addressing the overlooked gastrointestinal challenges they face later in life. As the only charity entirely focused on these life-threatening issues, the mission of Changing Futures is to advance research, deliver essential resources, and develop a compassionate and informed community.”
This cycling event by Changing Futures and its partner, Woodman’s, is the first of its kind and is hoped to become a community tradition that fosters togetherness, supports individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis, and funds groundbreaking medical advances. Changing Futures is based in Lynnfield and has previously hosted events for CF such as Freeze for a Future and Ride with a Purpose.
“Our inaugural scenic bike ride is about bringing people together around a shared purpose. Every rider, volunteer, sponsor, and donor is helping us move closer to a future where CF stands for Cure Found instead of Cystic Fibrosis,” Joel Steiner, co-founder of Changing Futures, said.
