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CRANK RX - The Bike as a Medical Device

Two remarkable individuals discover that cycling later in life isn't just exercise—it's medicine that transforms their lives with diabetes, proving that a bicycle can be the most powerful medical device in their arsenal.

Synopsis

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, CRANK RX follows two inspiring journeys:

Subject One

Type 2 diabetes threatens to dramatically interfer with the life of someone. Cycling becomes a way to reverse the adverse effect and allow them to maintain their profession.

Subject Two

Living with Type 1 diabetes, Subject one turns her bicycle into a valuable companion and device for staying vibrant. They demonstrate that age and health challenges are no barriers to extraordinary achievement.

The film culminates with both protagonists participating in the Tour de Cure, the American Diabetes Association's signature fundraising ride, as part of the Cycling Over Sixty team. Their stories offer hope and practical inspiration to millions facing similar health challenges.

Impact & Relevance

The Numbers:

38.4M
Americans have diabetes (11.6% of the population)
1 in 3
Adults over 65 have diabetes
$400B+
Annual diabetes costs in the United States

This film addresses a critical public health crisis while offering a solution that is accessible, sustainable, and life-changing. By presenting exercise as medicine, the bicycle becomes a powerful medical device. A device that allows older people to be active without the typical problems

Key Themes

Exercise as Medicine

Bicycles as medical devices; cycling prescribed for diabetes management.

Community as Catalyst

Group support transforms individual struggle into collective triumph.

Aging with Purpose

Cycling Over Sixty members, take on international cycling adventures, challenging assumptions about aging.

Joy in Movement

Cycling brings joy and freedom, making health management a celebration.

Visual Approach

The Pacific Northwest provides a breathtaking canvas:

  • Sweeping aerial shots of cyclists against mountain vistas, forests, and coastal roads
  • Dynamic cycling footage capturing energy and freedom
  • Intimate portraits of managing health challenges
  • Musical performance by a Cycling Over Sixty member
  • Tour de Cure event coverage highlighting community and achievement

Target Audience

Primary

  • American Diabetes Association
  • 38+ million Americans living with diabetes
  • Healthcare providers seeking patient inspiration
  • Adults over 50 interested in healthy aging

Secondary

  • Cycling enthusiasts and clubs
  • Public health organizations and diabetes advocacy groups
  • General documentary audiences on streaming platforms

Distribution Strategy

  • Film Festivals: Health/wellness, regional Pacific Northwest, documentary-specific
  • Healthcare & Educational: Partner with American Diabetes Association, collaborate with providers, create educational materials
  • Digital & Broadcast: Streaming platforms (Netflix, Amazon Prime), PBS, digital sales/rentals

Production Timeline

  • November - December 2025: Pre-Production (funding, research, locations)
  • March - May 2026: Principal Photography (daily lives, Tour de Cure, interviews)
  • June - July 2026: Post-Production

Why This Film Matters

CRANK RX is more than a documentary—it's a potential lifesaver. By sharing authentic stories of transformation, the film offers hope and practical action, showing that movement, community, and the simple act of pedaling can help reclaim life from diabetes.

Join Us

Your support will help:

  • Create a powerful tool for diabetes education and motivation
  • Inspire thousands to take control of their health through cycling
  • Challenge perceptions about aging with chronic illness
  • Build communities of support
  • Demonstrate that exercise truly is medicine

Together, we can show the world that the road to better health might just be a bike path—and that it's never too late to start pedaling.

Teleiomedia LLC in collaboration with Studio O'Riley

contact:

Tom Butler

tom.butler@teleiomedia.com