"Those Who Say They Can and Those Who Say They Can't Are Both Right" - Henry Ford
Greetings, and thank you for visiting my web page...
Anyone who has experience with Parkinson's Disease knows how debilitating it can be. My father's stories about the summers of '65 and '66 and building the a-frame cabin in Mammoth Lakes with Grandpa recall a man of great resourcefulness and endurance. However, due to the deteriorating effects of Parkinson's, this was a man I never got to see, and our time together in the Eastern Sierras was definitely not long enough.
I have accepted a transfer entry from a good friend for the 2008 Death Ride! On July 12th I will be cycling 129 miles over 5 mountain passes for a total of about 15,000 vertical feet of climbing through the Eastern Sierra and surrounding area. A challenge - but nothing in comparison to the daily struggle of living with Parkinson's Disease.
Fundraising $10,000 will also be a test, but I am optimistic that I can find at least 500 people with $20 who have been impacted by Parkinson's Disease, especially given that approximately 40,000 Americans are diagnosed every year (Parkinson's Disease Foundation). My introduction to road cycling was through Team In Training, and I raised over $2,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in just over three months through the generosity of family, friends, and perfect strangers. That response was encouraging, and I am again hoping for support of this equally important cause. However, this effort is significantly different in that there is no minimum goal - all donations go directly to the Davis Phinney Foundation, and all expenses come directly from my pocket.
Any amount is appreciated and tax-deductible - instructions will display once you click on the "Contribute To This Ride" button at right, and you will receive an official document from the Davis Phinney Foundation following a pledge. Also, many companies offer charity-matching donations. If you are unable to contribute at this time, I thank you for your consideration and hope you will forward my link to others who may be interested.
Sincerely,
Ryan Hoffman
Santa Cruz, CA
