I stumbled across this event a year ago while doing research on Alzheimer's. My dad was struggling with words and tasks, forgetting things, and I wanted to know if there was anything I could do to help him. Unfortunately, over the past year, my dad's condition has worsened rapidly. One year ago he would still call me, recognize me, and we were able to go fishing. Now he doesn't know who we are, cannot perform his daily functions, and doesn't get to leave the house much. While he may be in a memory care facility in the near future, my mom is a saint and is dedicated to doing anything and everything to bring him even the slightest amounts of joy. His favorite thing is getting donuts after church on Sunday!
Last year in an effort to earn donations towards this cause, I set out with 8 weeks to buy a bike, learn to ride, and conquer a 100 mile bike ride. I guess I should have realized the "hill country" is hilly AND windy, and I only made it 80 miles. This year I have more time, more passion, and am going back for redemption. The picture on this page was the finish line last year, where I was blessed to have my family with me. I will cherish this picture of my family for the rest of my life.
I'm going back this year to beat those 100 miles of hills! This is not only an outlet for all the emotions I am dealing with, a way to honor my dad, but it is also a fundraiser where 100% of the money raised goes straight toward the research to learn how to treat and eventually beat Alzheimer's (and all forms of Dementia). I have gotten to know the head of research, Dr. Christopher Weber PhD, very well and truly believe we are on the right track to End ALZ.
Please join me in making a difference in honor of my dad! We collectively raised $6,000 last year, and I want to meet or beat that amount in year two! Every dollar counts, and I am extremely grateful for any amount toward this near and dear cause!
(More than 6 million Americans are living with this disease, and over 11 million family members and friends provide them with care. Right now, there is no shortage of ideas in Alzheimer’s research — only dollars. Which is why I am asking for your support. I am participating in the Ride to End ALZ, a fully-supported, one day fundraising event where every dollar raised supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to discover methods of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s disease.)
Cheer Me On!