By Brooke Ballenger
On Sunday, June 5, the American Diabetes Association held its 25th annual Northern Virginia Tour de Cure to raise money and awareness for diabetes. For the sixth year in a row, Kaiser Permanente was a proud sponsor of this premier cycling and fundraising event for diabetes research and educational programs.
KPMAS also showed our support with a team of 33 employees and physicians called “Team KP Thrive” and participating in the fundraising event. The team has raised $16,864 to date toward their $20,000 goal and ranked number 4 in the Top Corporate Fundraising Teams. Riders can make donations up to 30 days after the event, so the total may increase. Team members raised even more than they did at least year’s event and went above and beyond to reach their goal.
Both Calvin Holmes, senior sales executive, who raised $2,594, and Dr. Steven Chatlin, podiatric surgeon, who raised $2,394, ranked in the top 20 fundraisers for the entire event. Additionally, Team KP Thrive had 4 team members who were considered “Champions,” meaning they raised over $1,000. These “Champions” included Dr. Chris Walters, podiatric surgeon; Dr. Deepak Kashyap, endocrinologist; Carol Rooney, pediatric nurse; and Terry Mansberger. Through their participation and generous donations, Team KP Thrive made a giant impact on the lives affected by diabetes.
Every year, a few emergency physicians from Tysons Corner Medical Center Clinical Decision Unit participate in the Tour de Cure. But they never stop being expert doctors or good samaritans. In fact, on the day of the event, emergency physicians Dr. Dennis Truong, Dr. Nelsson Becerra, and Dr. Faith Dillard (along with her husband P.J.) helped a fallen male rider who was around the age of 60.
“The man was bracing his left shoulder and hip, writhing in pain, with a bloodied left arm and leg,” Dr. Truong stated. “He wasn’t a Kaiser Permanente member, but he thanked us repeatedly for stopping and staying with him.”
The physicians stayed with the injured man for about 45 minutes before the paramedics arrived, and he received an IV, pain medicine, a sling, and was placed on a stretcher. This is just one example of how the people of Kaiser Permanente care for the health of everyone, whether they are a member or not. We go above and beyond what is expected to make those in need feel safe and comfortable.
Not only did KPMAS have riders participating and helping one another throughout the event, but we also had the Mobile Health Vehicle stationed at Reston Town center providing blood pressure screenings. We truly made our presence and support known to everyone.
“Kaiser Permanente cyclists were very visible in bright green and blue ‘KP Thrive’ jerseys and were recognized as one of the top fundraisers for the event,” stated Dr. Walters, team co-captain and former captain for many years. “We hope to return as a sponsor and be even larger next year.”
A special thank you to all those who participated in this year’s Tour de Cure event and made a difference in the many lives suffering with diabetes. Riders are still able to make donations for thirty days following the event. Show your support and stop diabetes by clicking here and donating today! Check out more photos from the event below.
