Brian’s Ride raises over $5,000

     CARIBOU, Maine — A motorcycle and vehicle ride in memory of Brian Caldwell, who died of cancer, has raised more than $5,000 to benefit local cancer patients through the Jefferson Cary Cancer Center. The ride, which was held Aug. 15, 2015, was organized by members of Caldwell family and friends.

     Caldwell’s sister, Pamela, said that the event was more than they had anticipated.
     “We were so thrilled by the response we received to this event,” said Caldwell, who hosted a barbecue and silent auction at the end of the ride. “We had 23 motorcycles and four other vehicles that participated and the weather was ‘picture’ perfect.”
The ride went from Limestone to Caribou, Fort Kent, Madawaska, Van Buren and back to Limestone. Some 50 local businesses helped to sponsor the event. Caribou Police Officer Doug Bell led the ride and officers in each town helped get bikes safely through the communities.
     “Words cannot describe the unbelievable, heartwarming gratitude Brian’s family has for all who participated and silently donated,” Caldwell said. “Whether setting up, riding, donating, thinking of us on the ride, cooking — everyone who pitched in helped to make this event more than we could have hoped for.”
     The ride generated $5,622. The funds will be used for local Aroostook County Cancer patients for such things as groceries, tolls, gas, lodging, household bills and other basic needs.
     “We personally experienced the challenges that Brian faced during his treatment,” said Caldwell. “Sometimes it’s the littlest things that can become so important, like paying a light bill, getting fuel oil, or gas for getting to a medical appointment. Fortunately Brian had the support of his family, but many others are not so fortunate. We want to help patients and we appreciated the people at Cary for their willingness to work with us.”
     Kaitlyn Umphrey, RN, oncology nurse at Cary Medical Center, got to know Brian Caldwell during his cancer treatment. She said that everyone involved with the Jefferson Cary Cancer Center was moved by the generosity of the Caldwell family.
     “We had the opportunity to meet members of Brian’s family during his treatment and could easily see that they had a special bond as a family. While it is tragic that Brian did not survive his cancer, the family has turned this tragedy into something that will live on to help others and keep Brian’s memory alive for years to come. We are very grateful that they chose to develop this fund with us here at the cancer center.”
     Caldwell pointed out the family is already planning another fundraising event. “We want to keep this momentum going,” she said. “Now we are planning ‘Gems and Jeans’ featuring Chloe and Isabel jewelry and the Brian’s Ride New Year’s Eve Bash at the Caribou Inn and Convention Center. The Inn has already donated the use of the building and we are confident that we will max out the facilities and raise more money to help local cancer patients.”
     The Jefferson Cary Cancer Center Survivorship Committee will work with the Caldwell family to establish the patient care fund. Anyone wishing to contribute to the fund may contact Kaitlyn Umphrey at the Jefferson Cary Cancer Center cancer center 498-1394.