In 2021, our family received a phone call that would change everything. My brother-in-law, Jordan, shared that he had been diagnosed with ALS. The news was shocking, devastating, and overwhelming—but in the midst of our fear, Jordan made an incredible connection that would become a lifeline: ALS Ride for Life (ALS RFL).
ALS Ride for Life is an extraordinary organization that provides vital programs directly supporting ALS patients while also funding critical research. Jordan has personally benefited from several of these programs, and without them, his quality of life would look very different today.
Through ALS RFL’s accessible van program, Jordan was provided with a wheelchair-accessible van at no cost to our family. Jordan’s power wheelchair weighs over 400 pounds, and without this van, he would be completely homebound—unable to attend medical appointments, family events, or even leave his house safely.
Jordan was also blessed to be the first recipient of ALS Ride for Life’s home modification grant. This grant made it possible to renovate his bathroom into a fully accessible and safe space. In addition, ALS RFL covered critical masonry work around the home, creating wheelchair access to both the basement and the backyard. These life-changing modifications were far beyond what our family could ever have managed financially on our own.
We are sharing Jordan’s story because ALS Ride for Life continues to go above and beyond for the ALS community, and they now need support to continue their mission.
The President of ALS Ride for Life, Ray Manzoni, has worked tirelessly for more than 28 years to advance ALS research and patient services. This May, Ray will be traveling to cities across the country to launch ALS RFL’s highly successful school education program. During these visits, volunteers living with ALS speak directly to students—raising awareness, educating communities, and generating essential fundraising support.
This initiative, known as the “Journey Across America,” requires reliable ground transportation to travel between cities. Because approximately 95% of ALS Ride for Life’s funding goes directly to research and patient services, the organization relies heavily on donations and volunteers to make efforts like this possible.
Funds raised through this campaign will help:
• Cover ground transportation for travel between cities
• Support the school education and awareness program
• Ensure the majority of funds continue going directly to ALS patients and research
ALS Ride for Life gave Jordan something priceless—independence, safety, and dignity. We hope you’ll consider helping them continue providing the same life-changing support to others facing this devastating disease.
If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is just as meaningful. Every act of support helps keep this journey moving.
With love and gratitude
Harshida
________________________________________
Learn more about ALS Ride for Life and their programs: