Support HersenStrijd: a Race against Time

Brain injury never happens by choice. After resuscitation, a cerebral hemorrhage, or a serious accident, the brain can be damaged in an instant. What often follows is a life that changes completely — for the patient and for everyone around them. Each year, approximately 130,000 people in the Netherlands experience brain injury, and this number continues to rise. In the intensive care unit of Maastricht UMC+, patients with severe brain injury are treated every day; despite intensive care, more than 60% leave the hospital with permanent, severe disabilities. Increasingly, these cases also involve people who have suffered brain injury following a cycling accident.

By the end of 2026, we will launch an ambitious and urgently needed research project in the Netherlands focusing on recovery after brain injury. We know that bruised brains need oxygen and fuel in order to recover — and that is exactly what we aim to investigate. Rather than waiting for government funding, we are choosing to take responsibility ourselves. By cycling together, we aim to finance a significant part of this study while simultaneously raising awareness for better recovery after brain injury.

Sporting efforts for the HersenStrijd Fund
This year, 21 enthusiastic participants will once again get on their bikes to support the fight against severe brain injury, turning this initiative into a growing tradition. As in previous years, they will take part in the recreational version of the Amstel Gold Race — the iconic Limburg cycling event filled with steep climbs and beautiful yet demanding terrain, symbolizing the long and challenging road that people with brain injury face every day.

In addition, Roger and Eric will participate in the Marly Gravel this year, a tough off-road ride that requires both physical strength and perseverance. Martijn will take on a remarkable personal challenge by completing a 200 km ride — an impressive milestone and a powerful statement of commitment to this important cause.

The HersenStrijd Fund: advancing better treatment for brain injury
With the support of donors, the HersenStrijd Fund finances groundbreaking research at Maastricht University and Maastricht UMC+ aimed at optimizing cerebral blood flow in the intensive care unit, enabling more brain cells to recover. The more cells that heal, the lower the risk of permanent disability — resulting in a significant improvement in quality of life.

In addition to research, the fund also runs numerous awareness campaigns focused on cycling safety. The HersenStrijd Fund is a named fund housed within the Universiteitsfonds Limburg, the charitable foundation (ANBI status) of Maastricht University.

“Helping damaged brains recover better. We know how — now we must prove it. This research is scheduled to start at the end of 2026. Funding begins today with this cycling campaign.”— Marcel Ariës, founder of the HersenStrijd Fund and neurologist–intensivist at Maastricht UMC+

Cycling team 2025 for the Amstel Gold Race

UM Crowd is part of the University Fund Limburg/SWOL. This fund is a recognised 'algemeen nut beogende instelling' (ANBI). This means that your donation is fully or partially tax deductible. You will receive an automatic email with a receipt after your donation.