Why I Ride: I ride for the Johnson side of my family, fighting Alzheimer's on multiple fronts. Charlie has already lost both his maternal grandfather and now his father to this disease, while his sister-in-law continues the fight. Watching one disease impact so many people in one family (all three genetically unrelated) has been emotionally difficult but has inspired us to focus fundraising efforts in this new direction. Last year, Charlie and I rode together, this year I will ride alone while Charlie volunteers for the event as his recovery continues. Even without my cycling buddy, I knew I wasn't going to give up this cause. This event was incredibly powerful last year and I will keep on riding to raise funds for this cause.

More than 6 million Americans live with this disease and over 11 million family members and friends provide them with care. I am inspired by what fundraising can do for both of these populations. The Alzheimer's Association is not big enough to put up the dollars for pharmaceutical research, but they are critical in advocating, providing care and support, and providing smaller research funds. As the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research, they are committed to advancing vital research toward methods of treatment, prevention and ultimately a cure. 

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 on 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.

With each mile I ride, I am raising funds to advance research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s. Thank you for cheering me on. In 2024 I ride for Chuck.