Bristol Myers Squibb is commemorating a decade of charitable efforts by organizing a 3,000-mile bike ride to support cancer patients. This initiative, known as Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer (C2C4C), has seen BMS employees pedal their way to raise millions for cancer research over the past 10 years. To mark this milestone, BMS employees are embarking on a cross-country cycling journey from Oregon to New Jersey. Their ambitious goal is to raise $1 million in support of the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Remarkably, BMS has pledged to match all funds raised, up to $500,000.
The inaugural C2C4C ride took place in 2014, and since then, BMS has successfully raised approximately $11.3 million for cancer research in the United States. In recent years, this initiative has expanded internationally, reaching Europe, Japan, and Latin America. BMS employees in these regions can now participate in fundraising activities to support international cancer organizations.
The BMS teams embarked on their cross-country journey this month, commencing their ride from Cannon Beach, Oregon. Each rider covers approximately 225 miles in a three-day period before handing over the baton to the next team to continue the journey across the country.
“It is awe-inspiring to think about how Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer has grown over the last 10 years – from a small group of employees looking to make a difference to this year’s highly anticipated, multi-country event – which speaks to the incredible passion our colleagues have for transforming the lives of people with cancer. Patients are at the center of everything we do. Every day, we work to drive progress in cancer research, but we know we can’t do it alone. For our employees, Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer is more than a bike ride, it’s a way to honor loved ones and go above-and-beyond to support life-saving research.”
– Catherine Owen, Senior Vice President, General Manager of U.S. Cardiovascular, Immunology, and Oncology, Bristol Myers Squibb
Among the 126 dedicated riders is Chris Haughey, a pediatric cardiac nurse and father of three. He rides in honor of his wife, Jennie, who bravely battled stage 3c colon cancer in 2018.
Reflecting on his commitment to the cause, Haughey expressed his determination to support others facing the challenges of cancer and praised his wife’s strength and devotion despite her own difficult journey. He also commended BMS for its commitment to making a positive impact in the fight against cancer.
“Having dedicated the last four years of my life to supporting my wife through her battle with cancer, I understand the effect this disease has on patients and their loved ones, so it’s important to me to show up for others who are going through such a difficult, uncertain time,” said Chris. “Jennie’s strength and devotion to our three sons despite her challenging journey are an inspiration, and I’m honored to ride in her name to help fund vital research. I’m equally proud to work for a company that is so committed to making a difference.”
