Six years ago, the friends, family, partners and co-workers of late partner, Steve Krohn, stepped up with overwhelming support when he was diagnosed with ALS.  Much has changed in six years.  Steve’s life was cut short by this horrible disease and his wife Kathy’s mourning has been very private.  Although they won’t be at the finish line to cheer us on, the reason why we run hasn’t changed and the fond memories we created with the Krohns will continue to live on.

The miracle of the ice-bucket challenge provided much needed funding for research, and significant progress has been made towards finding a cure, but there is still a long way to go.  Each year I’ve attended the ALS fundraising luncheon I’ve learned about the progress made towards finding a cure and these four things stand out most to me: 

-   ALS is severely underfunded, I believe because there are so few people living with the disease at any given time, there is less personal appeal.  It is not a common disease, therefore it’s not in the forefront when we think of causes to contribute to.

-   Like most puzzles, as additional pieces are fit, it increases clarity to the picture. 

-   People diagnosed with ALS really need care that requires us to pool resources. 

-   Thinking about the day a cure is found is quite emotional for me, because I care so much about it.  

Ragnar is just a relay race, but six years ago we made it into a vehicle to collectively contribute to a common cause of finding a cure, providing care, and honoring one of our own who was diagnosed and lost to this disease.  We’ve learned from each other what it means to do our best to support others, to give back, to make a difference.  So this year, I’m asking you once again to be part of this effort, to contribute what you feel good about.  I’ll lead by example, and ask that you do the same.

Thank you for your consideration, Dan

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