In November 1999, my friend Tom Ratcliffe asked me if there was anything he could do to help with my fight against ALS.  We quickly agreed that our goal should be to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.  Tom and I recruited a team of 8 of our friends to run the Boston Marathon.  Thus was born the Run for ALS.

The goal for each runner was to raise $2130.  When Lou Gehrig benched himself on May 2, 1939, he had played in 2130 consecutive games.  The number, 2130, comes from this incredible feat of love and dedication.

If every runner met their goal, our teams fund-raising total would be $17,040.  As more people found out about our team's efforts, the more support we gathered.  Our story was covered both in the Boston Globe and on WCVB channel 5.  I am proud to say that our fund-raising total is almost 2 1/2 times our goal.  Our Run for ALS team raised: 

$43,467.78

I'm honored by the efforts of my friends.  Their kindness and willingness to make a difference has touched my soul and helped build my character.  Thanks.