Matt and Ross
                                                           
June 14, 2009
Departing from Yorktown, VA to Eugene, OR (4,200 miles)

Matthew Thomas Evans was born September 26, 1985 in Columbus, Ohio.  In June 1993, doctors at the Dayton Children’s Hospital diagnosed him with a brain tumor located on the hypothalamus (upper brain stem) just above the pituitary gland.  Fortunately, a biopsy determined that the tumor was non-cancerous.  However, the tumor was interfering with the proper functioning of my pituitary gland, which controls the production of growth hormone.  Without medication his body would not be able to reach normal adult height. 

Matthew is now just shy of 6 feet tall, will graduate this spring from Wright State University with a degree in Organizational Leadership, and has completed 2 marathons in the last year.  In other words, despite the tumor, he has a terrific, normal, life.  Matthew is extremely grateful for the doctors and medical research that have given him the opportunity to live a normal healthy life.  He also realizes that others with brain tumors may not be as fortunate as he is.

So, in support of the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA), an organization that provides funding for research as well as support and education for patients their families and caregivers, Matthew, along with longtime friend, Ross, are planning to ride their bikes across the United States of America.  On June 14^th 2009, Matthew and Ross will depart from Yorktown, VA and travel 4,200 miles to Eugene, OR. 

Matthew and Ross will be riding 50 to 75 miles a day.  Their goal is to make it across the country in approximately 3 months, while raising funds to support the Research and Patient Education Programs of the ABTA.  They will be doing what they love while raising funds to help an organization that supports the families and friends of those affected by brain tumors. 

Your sponsorship can help them reach their goal.  You can do this in two ways - either by mile, or by making a flat pledge.  Their trip will be about 4,200 miles. 

Click here to download our donation letter and form.  Once completed send the form directly to: 

ABTA/Wright Flyers Bike Ride
2720 River Road, Suite 146
Des Plaines, IL  60018

If you would like more information about how you can help support this event or have additional questions, please contact Matthew at 937-478-0398.  For more information about ABTA, go to www.abta.org or call 847-827-9910.

Thank you for your consideration and support.