This year I am participating in the Team Challenge Ride to Defeat ALS.
A few years ago, my dad was diagnosed with ALS. At this time there is no cure for ALS. The disease takes you over and withers your body away rapidly until you can’t walk and eventually can’t speak. Since his diagnoses a few years ago, my dad has devoted himself to supporting the future of ALS research. He reads every journal article, and volunteers for every clinical trial or opportunity to speak about his experience.
I used to ride bikes with my dad, and as he has become more and more confined to his motorized wheelchair, I have pushed myself harder into cycling. For someone who always lived a lifestyle constantly on the move, ALS has been a constant challenge for him. While he is constantly in pain and sometimes falls and needs help, he remains a source of unwavering positivity for our entire family. His biggest focus is to give all he can so others in the future won’t have to suffer the way he is. For all he does for us and the ALS community, I am giving back to him by riding and supporting him in his mission to end ALS for everyone.
The Team Challenge ALS helps to raise funds and awareness to help fight back against this terrible disease. Funds go to the ALS Association, which provides much needed patient services resources, funds global, cutting edge research, and much more in order to help those living with ALS right in our community.
Challenging ALS is a personal mission for me. While my family and I are doing everything we can, the ALS community needs your support. We need a team to defeat ALS. If you can, please support us by sharing with your friends and family, making a donation, or joining me in riding on September 20th.
Some links to learn more about ALS:
http://web.alsa.org/site/PageNavigator/AAM16_what_is_als.html?_ga=2.61348527.24120485.1597012244-1669789054.1592494348
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDpN-6EAd3k&feature=youtu.be
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!