Why I Ride: I ride in Memory of my Dad, John Knapp. He gave so much of himself to others. As a School Bus Driver and Volunteer Fireman, He touched countless lives. It was a great loss to our Family and Community when he passed in 2010. We first became fully aware of his dementia when he disappeared for a day. He drove to lunch one afternoon. He did not return home after. Fortunately, He was found and returned to us. I was equally grateful for his safe homecoming and devastated by the frightened, disoriented, confused man who came home. Life was never the same after that Day.
His mother, my beloved Grandmother, Wilma Knapp, had some form of Dementia. My Grandma Knapp drives my mission to raise Awareness of Alzheimer’s and other forms of Dementia. I recall her era as a negative time for those suffering with such diseases. Misunderstood victims faced with ridicule. I am thankful for the Alzheimer’s Association’s awareness efforts shedding light on this Dark Dreadful Disease.
I ride for my sister in law, Michelle White. Michelle is bravely battling early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Her determination to help others by participating in clinical trails is inspiring.
I participated for the scientific research funded by The Ride to End Alz. My goal is a future where no one will be given the incurable disease diagnosis. Grandparents, parents, siblings, children, family and friends will not be lost to Alzheimer’s disease.
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. Every dollar raised supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to discover methods of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s disease.
Thank you for cheering me on!
Cheer Me On!