News Postings is our version of a BLOG and will address topics under multiple categories including: Reflections, News, Events, Christopherisms and others we may add in the future.  These categories are intended to give you a glimpse into our life as we deal with the diagnosis of ALS.  We invite you to click on comments and give your feedback which will appear on the site.  The comments you make may spark further discussion and are greatly encouraged.  If you don't want your comment public, just send us an email instead.   Thank you for being here!

Two weeks from today, Jennifer will be crossing the finish line for the 4th Annual Tri-State Trek.  It has been a while since I wrote about it so feel free to click on the link to find out more.

Let me first add some perspective to the situation.   We have been the motivational speakers for this event for the last two years, an honor to be sure.  Somehow, she was convinced to ride in this year’s event by the riders and event coordinator from last year. 

It’s easy to say “Yes” when it is a year away! 

In no way do I mean this to be insulting, but Jennifer is not an athlete.  She takes pride and feels good working out for a few hours a week, whether it’s walking with a friend or using our Nordic Track.  Cycling is not and never was even an occasional activity.  Yes, we had mountain bikes that I think we rode a handful of times, but they still have the little rubber knobs on the tires!  The bottom line is that this ride is WAAAAYYYYY out of her comfort zone. 

I really need to put Jennifer’s efforts into writing as I think it will make me appreciate them even more, it that is possible.  She has been training on our Nordic Track since August of 2005, three to four times per week.  In November of 2005 she joined a “spinning” class designed to simulate riding, build the correct muscles and perform cardio-vascular training.  The first gym changed from paying by class to requiring an expensive full membership.  The second gym had a reasonable membership price with great classes and then promptly went out of business after 5 weeks.  It was late March at this point, so we decided to buy the road bike Jennifer would need for the ride.  This way, she could experience actual road conditions and get used to her bike at the same time.

The main psychological reason Jennifer is doing this ride is similar to many other riders.  The premise being that if ALS patients can endure their symptoms and circumstances  daily than surely 270 miles of cycling and 3 days of physical and emotional stress can be tolerated by one in good health.  It doesn’t hurt that we are raising money for ALS research!

I cannot imagine what she will go through or quite frankly, all she has already experienced in preparation for this ride which it is so out of the norm for her.  I know she is dedicated, overwhelmed, nervous and scared.  She is frustrated with the amount of time training takes from all the other things she feels responsible to do.  All prayers are welcome for Jennifer, but most of all for her safety. 

Several people have asked how to sponsor her so please click on Sponsor Page and make sure you put her name and rider number 44.  We ask for your financial support at various times throughout the year, so please do not feel obligated if this particular effort does not call you.  This is just one of those opportunities.  To those that have already generously sponsored her, thank you so very much.  The money Jennifer is raising goes to ALSTDF for ALS research.  We know the people in this organization personally; they are very dedicated as well and are doing an incredible job with their work.  

To Jennifer,

            I am so incredibly proud of you.  The dedication you have shown emphasizes one of the characteristics in you that I love so much.  Your willingness to participate in this event and follow through with it inspires me to continue my fight with unending vigor.  Thank you.