Parker Gretschmann is from Janesville, Wisconsin. 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?

Cancer has had its touch in my family, my dad was diagnosed with colon cancer when I was 13 or so an it was tough seeing such a powerful man now stuck in the confines of his bed. It's hard to see that. I haven't personally done much for those with cancer but I wish to help in any way possible, last year I joined the great cycling challenge to help raise money for cancer research, an I try to join any other fundraiser I can to help those who are in need.

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

It has always been a personal dream to ride my bike across the country an now finding a way to do it with a purpose is amazing, this is a truly amazing way to spread the word of this great charity. While riding across country I hope to meet many great people an maybe inspire some people to reach out an help do some good in the world.

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!