Newsletter from Arctic Adventure dated August 30, 2020

It will happen to you …. That from one day to the next your world suddenly seems to be (briefly) turned upside down. That happened to Eduard Bollebakker (47). Eduard is an “old” commando buddy of mine.

In late July 2019, Eduard was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He did not have much time to think because three days later he was admitted to Maxima MC and was on his first round of chemotherapy. Normally, Eduard works at this same hospital as an anesthesia assistant.

After six months of several admissions including chemo and a stem cell transplant, Eduard was discharged from the hospital in late December 2019. He was free of cancer and the stem cell transplant had been successful.

Great news, of course.

But there is more ….

“From my own experience, I can say that ‘distraction’ is a good medicine to get through a tough period.”

Turning a negative period into something positive

During that last period, another extraordinary thing happened. Edwards figured out a way how to turn this negative period into something positive. Thus was born the plan to raise money for The Princess Maxima Center.

“I was triggered by the projects initiated by Ambassador Bas Smit and Nicolette van Dam. Fantastic how these projects can alleviate some of the illness in patients and parents. From my own experience I can say that ‘distraction’ is good medicine to get through a tough period.”

A positive mindset and goal setting

A positive mindset helped Edwards tremendously during the disease process and rehabilitation. Therefore, early next year, 14 months after the stem cell transplant, he plans to end this period with a physical challenge. With 7 of his closest friends, he will embark on a historic journey; The “Heroes of Telemark” Memorial Expedition. A trip of 104 km on tour skis, through the snow, at -20 degrees, each with a sled behind us, for 7 days.

“How wonderful to share this unique, physically and mentally demanding experience with 7 of my closest friends who have always been ready before, during and after my illness!”

You can probably imagine that I was tremendously touched by this story and initiative by Eduard. So from Arctic Adventure, I didn’t have to think long about sponsoring this trip either. After all, I want Eduard to use this ride to raise as much money as possible for the Princess Maxima Center.

Support Eduard’s goal

I hope that reading this story has also inspired you. You don’t have to go on an expedition for that. After all, you can sponsor his trip. For that, go to his website and see how you can do that.
Support Eduard’s goal

Arctic Adventures thinks with you

I can also imagine, that you yourself want to raise money for a charity or project and initiate a sponsorship drive. From Arctic Adventure, we are happy to think with you. After all, how cool is it to be able to raise money for a special cause through our expeditions.
Want to know more?