Recap of the 2024 Pedals for EB

By: Katie Beckenhaupt RN, BSN, CPN, Volunteer Writer for the EB Hope Foundation

Imagine embarking on a journey of pedaling 500 miles in the heat of summer to raise $10,000 for a cause close to your heart. This is the mission that drives Dan Kuhlman, affectionately known as “Uncle Dan,” as he cycles to make a difference in the fight against Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).

Epidermolysis Bullosa, or EB, is a rare genetic skin disease characterized by extremely fragile skin and recurrent blistering, often caused by minor friction or trauma. Those affected by EB are often likened to butterflies because their skin is as delicate as a butterfly’s wings. EB impacts both the external skin and internal organs and tissues. Learn more about EB. 

Dan’s niece, Kristy Kissell, co-founder of the EB for Hope Foundation, has two sons with this rare skin disorder. Dan rides for them and for other families navigating the lifelong challenges associated with EB.

The 2024 Pedals for EB marks the third consecutive year that Dan has taken on this challenge, and once again, he exceeded his goal.

When COVID-19 forced the EB Hope Foundation’s annual walkathon to shut down, Dan knew he had to do something more. He began training indoors for about a year until gyms reopened, allowing him to attend cycling classes. This sparked his interest in riding for more than just exercise.

Dan found a charity ride for pediatric cancer, pledged to ride 150 miles, and raised $3,000 for that event. After completing that ride, he took that momentum and turned his passion for cycling towards a cause close to his heart—and that’s how Pedals for EB was born.

In 2022, Dan presented his idea to the foundation’s board and organized the first Pedals for EB. The initial goal was to bike 150 miles and raise $3,000. They ended up raising $5,000.

In 2023, Dan set his sights higher, aiming to bike 300 miles and raise $5,000. He surpassed both goals, cycling 350 miles and raising an incredible $8,000.

This year, Dan raised the stakes once again, setting a goal of biking 500 miles to raise $10,000. By the end of the 2024 Pedals for EB, Dan had raised a total of $10,523!

In an interview, Dan discussed the physical and mental challenges he faces while riding, along with the beauty along the trails. (You can watch the full interview here).

Although the challenges these children and their families endure are beyond what most of us can comprehend, there is so much we can learn from their strength, faith and resilience. Your support of Pedals for EB has a direct impact on the families navigating life with EB. The EB Hope Foundation provides grants to EB organizations and EB families battling this rare genetic skin disorder.

Visit the 2024 Pedals for EB fundraising page at: https://givebutter.com/PedalsForEB