David Cole, kidney transplant recipient and avid cyclist, is the Director of the Raven Rock Ramble, a 100-mile bicycle ride that explores Wake, Harnett, Lee and Chatham counties of North Carolina around Raven Rock State Park. Proceeds from this event benefit the UNC Kidney Center. The most recent ride took place on May 4th, 2014 with over 650 registrants and raising over $20,000 for kidney patient services at the UNC Kidney Center. This is the 13th year of the event and has thus far raised over $170,000 toward kidney health and awareness.
 
David started cycling in 1987, building his skill until 1997 when a routine physical detected red blood cells and protein in his urine. Several ensuing tests ended in a kidney biopsy which confirmed a condition called IgA nephropathy. From there, David began a slow physical decline that started with leg cramps, led to anemia and, eventually, a transplant. David's sister, Laura, agreed to be his donor and they both underwent surgery in 2001. Despite a few setbacks, he was able to return to cycling with an 8-mile ride less than six weeks after his surgery! He continued to pursue his passion and was back to 100-mile cycling events within a remarkable seven months.
 
Through his decline and revival, David has been a chiropractic patient of Dr. Richard Armstrong in Cary, NC. "Dave is a remarkable person who has turned his difficult journey plus his passion for cycling into an impactful contribution to kidney health and awareness. It has been a pleasure serving him as my patient and getting to know his cause. I am proud to support Dave and the Raven Rock Ramble," Dr. Armstrong commented.
 
David has been seeing Dr. Armstrong's since 1998. He shared, "I am grateful to Dr. Armstrong for keeping my body feeling its best, even in more challenging times. Keeping my body in alignment enhances my training and cycling performance. Dr. Armstrong has been a loyal supporter of the Raven Rock Ramble. The ride's supporters truly make our efforts possible."
 
The average kidney transplant lasts only 10 years. David realizes his time to enjoy cycling may be limited, but he is making the most of it personally while effecting many others through his charitable efforts. If you would like to learn more about the Raven Rock Ramble and/or donate to the UNC Kidney Center, please visit http://www.ravenrockramble.org/index.html.