On September 18th, 2021 I was honored to participate in the Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS for the second consecitive year (I rode in Boulder as the event was held virtually). I am called to this event having recently lost my friend and fraternity brother, Steve Ertel, to this insidious disease. Steve was an outstanding athlete and an even better person. I know that he would appreciate being honored in this way. A group of Steve's friends and I have joined forces (Team Turtle) to raise funds and defeat ALS.
As you may know, ALS (also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease) is a fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe. Someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with ALS every 90 minutes 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 and the average life expectancy of an ALS patient is two to five years from diagnosis.
We are living in incredibly challenging times and the need to demonstrate care and concern for others is acute. Riding in support of this cause is one way that I can make a difference in other people's lives. I invite you to join me in that effort. Please click below if you are moved to make a donation to the ALS Association.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Wishing you good health and wellness,
Jon
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!
