Bike the US for MS staff along with the organization’s Board of Directors have been closely monitoring the progression and impact of Covid-19. The health and safety of our cyclists, members of the gracious communities that host us, and individuals living with MS who are the center of why we fundraise and ride, have continued to be our top priority, and have been at the heart of these difficult discussions.

Due to the nature, distance, and number of jurisdictions/counties/cities/states that we pass through we will not be able to safely ride a cross country or coastal trip in 2021. As an organization, we have made the difficult decision that due to the dangers associated with the ongoing pandemic it will not be safe for the teams to be on the road pedaling the thousands of miles across the country in 2021.

Board members and staff are all alumni of the organization and understand first hand the challenging preparation that it takes to prepare for a ride – the training, the gear purchasing, the fundraising, the countless hours of planning. It pains us to have to cancel the rides, for the second year in a row. Over the 14 seasons Bike the US for MS has operated cross country bike rides for multiple sclerosis the only thing to have ever caused a major ride interruption, let alone having to cancel planned trips, has been the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

At it’s very core, our mission is to raise funds and awareness for individuals living with multiple sclerosis. This high-risk population needs us now more than ever. During these times, finding funding and care has become increasingly difficult, and we are committed not only to our rides, but our overall mission and responsibility to make life better for those living with MS. Together, we can forge ahead with the determination to continue to make a difference.

As we push forward we will be arranging and expanding our opportunities as a team to participate virtually in a Bike the US for MS challenge this summer. Bike the US for MS will also be planning an in person, week-long, Virginia based, all camping, regional ride, this fall. We are confident that we will be able to host a shorter, regional ride, that requires vaccinations, safely this fall and would love to see you there. We will keep you all updated on both of those opportunities as details are solidified and the opportunities approach!

 

Thank you for your patience, your input in our decision making process, and continued support of the fight against MS – a fight that still rages on in the midst of this worldwide crisis. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns please be in touch – info@biketheusforms.org or call/text 201-503-6367.

– The Bike the US for MS Team