Dear Friends and Family,

I’m asking for your support.

This October 22nd, I'll be running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. There is no doubt that the 26.2 mile race will be a challenge, both physically and mentally. However, getting to know the Frates family over the past several years has changed my idea of a challenge dramatically. These days, I cannot think of the phrase "mental toughness” without thinking of Pete Frates. For those of you who know Pete, no further explanation is needed. For those who don’t, let me explain.

In 2012, at 27 years old, Pete was diagnosed with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, eventually leading to complete loss of voluntary muscle action. It is considered 100% fatal. A former baseball captain at Boston College, Pete put his mental toughness and leadership skills to work immediately after the devastating diagnosis, spreading awareness and raising funds for ALS research. In August 2014, Pete helped start the now-famous Ice Bucket Challenge, which raised over $100M for the ALS Association and contributed directly to the discovery of a new ALS gene in 2016. Since then, Pete and his family have lived by the mantra “Every August Until a Cure,” raising unprecedented awareness and over $250M for ALS research.

Most recently, the Frates’ advocacy has led to the formation of the Pete Frates Home Health Initiative. The Initiative is a Massachusetts pilot program of the ALS Association to provide in-home caregiving assistance for those living with ALS who cannot otherwise pay for the services. The Frates spend around $3,000 per day - or $90,000 per month - on in-home care because it is absolutely vital for Pete to be home with his wife Julie and 2-year-old daughter Lucy.

Here’s how you can help.  I’ve set a lofty goal to raise $4,000 - or $152 per mile - in Pete's honor by race day, all of which will be designated for the Initiative.  Please make a donation in any amount to help build on the work Pete has done.  Any donation, however small, is appreciated. Donations are tax deductible, and an email receipt will be provided.

If you’d like to learn more about Pete’s story and donate directly toward his care, I’d encourage you to visit the Pete Frates #3 Fund website and make a donation there as well: www.petefrates.com

Thank you for your support!

Lauren Leonard Tracy

If you do not want to donate online, you can download an offline donation form by clicking here.