Kai Olson is a sophomore at University of St. Thomas. In the summer of 2019, he will be traveling with a group of college-aged students on a 70-day, 4000+ mile ride from Baltimore to Seattle, raising money and awareness for the Ulman Foundation.

What is your connection to the cancer community?

My first experience with cancer was with my neighbor, Gary Bill. He and his wife lived a couple doors down from me. As I spent more time with them, we grew closer and it felt as though I had gained another set of grandparents. Mr. Bill mentored me in using tools, home improvement projects, how to tie a tie for my first dance, and how to be a respectable young man. I knew since early on that he had prostate cancer, but I chose to push it to the back of my mind and ignore it. As time went on, the visits became shorter as he was feeling more ill. He passed away too early. I still think of Mr. Bill often, and I miss him very much.

Why are you traveling 4,000 miles this summer with the Ulman Foundation?

When my friend Spencer Polk told me about his ride with the Ulman Foundation two summers ago, it immediately struck a chord in me. I love biking, and to raise money and awareness for a cause so important at the same time sounded like a unique and wonderful opportunity. I look forward to meeting many people and making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer, while learning a lot about myself and growing as an individual.

2019 marks the 18th year of the 4K for Cancer sending young adults on journeys across the country in an effort to inspire hope and unite communities in the fight against cancer. The 4K for Cancer is a program of the Ulman Foundation (Ulman). Interested in joining the fight? Apply to be a rider or runner a at www.4kforcancer.org! 

CHALLENGE:

Over 72,000 young adults are diagnosed with cancer every year. Young adults (ages 15-39) face a variety of unique challenges with a cancer diagnosis including fertility preservation, social isolation, lack of insurance, delayed diagnosis, and more. 

SOLUTION:

Ulman Foundation changes lives by creating a community of support for young adults, and their loved ones, impacted by cancer. With your support, Ulman is able to provide free support services and resources for the young adult cancer community including:

Cancer to 5K - a 12-week training program designed to introduce or reintroduce cancer survivors to physical activity.

Patient Navigation - a free program (onsite at cancer centers and remotely through our office) that ensures no young adult ever faces cancer alone. We provide one-on-one support & resources to young adults and their families to help them manage the cancer experience and long-term cancer survival.

Scholarships - a financial assistance program to help young adults continue their education after being affected by cancer through their own diagnosis or the diagnosis of a loved one.

Ulman House - This year Ulman will open a “home away from home” to provide free housing for young adult cancer patients, and their caregivers, in East Baltimore. 

Your donation will help make these programs and our mission possible!