Team Breathe Healthy at the Tour de Cure
Chesapeake, VA – A cycling team formed by the company Breathe Healthy participated in the Hampton Roads American Diabetes Associations' "Tour de Cure" 100 mile bicycle ride. The owner was able to complete the ride while wearing one of his company's respiratory masks, and raise money for the charity while doing so.
Breathe Healthy manufactures and sells a unique line of breathing masks that are commonly used for allergy relief and protection from dust, pollen, and germs. Their customers range from asthma sufferers to pet groomers. "Our product was designed out of the need for a better allergy mask," said Mike Vahey, a U.S. Army Veteran, owner of the company, and the one who wore the mask for 100 miles of cycling. "There is nothing else on the market that is as comfortable and breathable. I couldn't have done this with any other mask."
The small cycling team was arranged this spring. "Team Breathe Healthy" consists of the owner, his brother-in-law, and a few close friends who enjoy cycling. "I wanted to donate a portion of our profits to a noble cause, but had trouble choosing the right cause and the right way to give. By forming a cycling team, we can support a variety of charities, while also doing what we love to do. It's a great way to give back, promote our products, and get in shape at the same time," said Mike. The team raised over $600 for the Tour de Cure.
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading non-profit health organization supporting diabetes research, information, and advocacy. Their mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. The Tour de Cure is one of their largest fundraisers, and stages cycling events around the country.
When asked about wearing the mask for 100 miles, Mike said, "I receive questions regularly from customers who are runners or cyclists, and want to know if they can run or cycle while wearing our masks. Other than feedback from other users, I couldn't really tell them how our masks performed. After riding a bicycle 100 miles with the Breathe Healthy mask, I can say that I didn't even notice the mask - but my legs were certainly a concern! The air has been thick with pollen this spring, so it really helped with my allergies during the race as well." According to Mike, Breathe Healthy is beginning to market its masks towards athletes and active individuals who don't want their allergies, immune deficiencies, or respiratory issues to affect their active lifestyles. Learn more about Breathe Healthy and their products at http://www.breathehealthy.com.
