Support Michael's Stroke Across America Ride

Dear Friends,

This summer, I will be cycling between Missoula, Montana and Boston, Massachusetts to raise awareness and funds about stroke and aphasia.

As you know, on 21 May 2016, I had an ischemic stroke, which left me with physical weakness and aphasia. From the day of my stroke, I was determined to get back on my bike. After 37 days at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, I arrived home and got on my stationary bike. Eventually, I got on my bike for an outside ride, falling four times in the distance of approximately four miles. I kept at it, though, and by September, four months after my stroke, I rode 25 miles in the Rodman Ride for Kids. Since then, I have been building my strength and stamina by cycling and rowing on the ergometer.

My biggest challenge is my aphasia, a communication disorder that makes speaking and comprehending difficult for me. It is frustrating that so few people know what aphasia is or understand it impacts language but not intellect. I have been doing my best to raise aphasia awareness through various channels, including publishing my book of poetry, Finding My Words, Aphasia Poetry.

When I learned from my amazing friend Debra Myerson, who had a stroke in 2009, that she and her husband Steve Zuckerman were planning a cross-country ride to raise stroke awareness, I knew that I wanted to be a part of it. I am determined to meet this challenge. My ride will last from June 4 to August 27, with rides of approximately 60 miles per day. There will be events along the way to raise awareness about stroke.

The cost of this ride for me will be $7,000, and I have a goal of raising an additional $3,000 for the Stroke Onward organization to continue their inspiring work.

So, I humbly ask that you contribute to this cause and help me meet this challenge and spread the word about stroke and aphasia. Any amount you can contribute will help!

Yes, I am anxious, but I will make it: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31).

Love and prayers,

Michael