Over the weekend of July 11-12, I will be participating in the New England Classic Charity Bike Tour, an American Diabetes Association fundraiser in New Hampshire. The money my teammates and I raise will go to research as well as Camp Carefree, a summer program that provides a supportive, fun and educational camping experience for children with Type 1 diabetes. While advances in research continue to improve diabetes management, there is currently no cure. I was diagnosed over 35 years ago as a 28 year old and it was challenging. For a young child and families, it is unimaginable. Learning how to manage one’s blood glucose levels is an ongoing process, affected by the foods we consume, the amount of insulin in our bodies delivered by injections or a pump, as well as exercise, illness and even stress. To be able to send a young child dealing with these challenges to a camp filled with peers who know exactly how they're feeling is a great experience.
I hope you will join me in making it possible for more young people to have this summer experience. I have set my fundraising level to $2500 but I hope to exceed it. If you are able to support this cause, your donation will further research towards a cure and support a summer opportunity for young people dealing with the ongoing challenges of diabetes management. Please use this link to donate:
PledgeReg - Online Fundraising
Thanks in advance.
With much appreciation,
Meryl
New England Classic Charity Bike Tour
The New England Classic Charity Bike Tour returns July 11–14, 2026, offering a welcoming hub-and-spoke cycling experience based out of the Comfort Inn & Suites in Dover, New Hampshire. Riders can choose a 1-day, 2-day, or 4-day ride, all highlighting the seacoast and the region’s quiet country roads.
The 2026 NEC proudly supports the American Diabetes Association, with funds directed to Camp Care Free. The ADA’s camp programs have been creating safe, meaningful, and unforgettable experiences for children living with diabetes since 1949—combining adventure, education, mentorship, and fun for thousands of campers and families each year. Your participation helps sustain these life-changing programs.
Ride Options & Fundraising Minimums
- 1-Day Ride (July 11)
A scenic day ride followed by a post-ride lunch at the Dover hub.
Fundraising minimum: $250 - 2-Day Ride (July 11–12)
Two distinct out-and-back routes featuring the best of the coast and countryside.
Accommodations and breakfast/dinner included.
Fundraising minimum: $600 - 4-Day Ride (July 11–14)
Four days of expanded routes showcasing seacoast views, river valleys, and rural terrain.
Accommodations and breakfast/dinner included.
Fundraising minimum: $1,500
Your support fuels the NEC and strengthens the ADA’s work to empower children living with diabetes.
The New England Classic Charity Bike Tour (NEC Bike Tour) is organized and operated exclusively for charitable purposes. The purpose of the NEC Bike Tour is to raise funds exclusively for charitable purposes in support of the American Diabetes Association and their summer camp for kids with diabetes, Camp Carefree.