Why I Ride...
I will be participating in The ALS Association Golden West Chapter's 15th annual Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS and Walk. I am riding in honor of my fraternity brother, Steve Ertel, who was tragically taken from us in the prime of his life last year by this debilitating disease. Steve was a light that shone brightly over everyone he met. His warmth, caring and positive attitude would immediately draw you in, it was impossible to not love this guy. His loss was a profound one to everyone in his orbit, particularly his wife and two teenage daughters. His infectious, upbeat personality is sorely missed, particuarly during these trying times. My effort here is a small token to honor him and to raise awareness and money for the horrible disease that took him away from us.
While the ride will be virtual due to COVID-19, we will all be performing our original mileage target closer to home. I will attempt to post videos along the way if I can figure it all out.
What is ALS?
Often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of it's ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe.
Why We Need Your Help
Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries.
1. The average life expectancy of an ALS patient is two to five years from the time of diagnosis.
2. Every 90 minutes someone in this country is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease.
3. ALS can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease. Someone you know or love may die from ALS unless a cure is found.
4. Caring for a loved one with ALS costs on average of $200,000 each year.
Please help me blow through my personal fundraising goal and beat out my other fraternity brothers. I appreciate all of your support during these difficult times. Hopefully our little effort here can make a dent in the struggle.
THANK YOU ALL IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR GENEROSITY AND SUPPORT!!!
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!
