The causes of the vast majority of ALS cases are
still unknown.
We had planned to get an early start this morning to drive 10 hours to Pittsburgh to spend the night with our son Danny and his wife Kristen, our first stop heading to Oxford. At 4:45am, I received a text from my dear friend Susan Warner asking if I had left. I couldn't imagine she was up so early texting me. As I went downstairs to finish packing the car, I looked out and saw Susan's car parked in front of our house. She had come to send us off, complete with a lawn display, warm fresh baked scones and warm wishes for a safe ride. Susan is one of my "wingwomen", who has been riding by my side for years. Do to life circumstances, she is not able to ride with me on this one but is giving 110% of her support in so many ways.
Joanne Spofford, is another amazing friend who when she heard that Doug's doctor's told him not to lose weight, has baked Doug a batch of blonde brownies every week and delivers them to our door! Yesterday, we received a double delivery for the trip. These are just two examples of many family and friends who are helping us behind the scenes. We are certainly blessed with amazing friends.
The ride to Pittsburgh was a bit wet as it poured for several hours with very poor visibility. The bikes got wet but we hope that the bad weather will end there and our riding days will be sunny and cool! It's been great seeing Danny and Kristen even though it is a short visit. Charlie will fly to Pittsburgh on Friday though and we will get to see Danny and Kristen again as they drive Charlie to Ohio to meet us along the way. We have a bike for Charlie on the car and he hopes to ride as much of the route as he can. Thankfully, Emily is holding down the fort at home and is planning the celebratory party for July 1st. A real family affair.
We cannot even begin to express our gratitude to everyone who has financially supported this ride. We have currently raised over $72K as a team and I was told by Emily that I received over $2100 more in donations in the mail today. Just incredible news in our effort to fund a cure. Thank you all!
Doug spoke to a reporter from Akron, Ohio today who heard of our ride from fellow team member Rod McGregor. She plans to run an article in the next two days and said, "This event is going viral." We never imagined that this would go viral but it is starting to feel that way! Blessed beyond words!
With hope and gratitude,
Dolly and Doug
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