To know Neal is to love him, and that's just what we're going to do. This month, Pilates for GOOD is fundraising for Neal! For many people, we have met Neal through pilates, dance, or in passing, but for all of us, Neal has become more than that initial chance encounter. He is our mentor, our guide, our cheerleader, our pillar, but most of all, Neal is our friend. He has shown up for all of us in ways that make our lives better, and our time with him always feels focused and significant. And now more than ever, we can pour that same care he brings to all of us regularly back into him. It is with so much enthusiasm that this month, we can use this community to raise love, vibes, and the financial support that our beloved Neal deserves.

During Neal's extended, yet temporary, absence from our regular lives, he is going to need some help. That is where we come in. What good is our work in raising support for causes in our community if we cannot come together to support directly one of our own? Neal will be taking an extended leave of absence to focus on re-centering himself and feeling for himself that love and joy and unabashed pride that we all feel for him. For anyone seeking support, this process is not easy, but we as a community have the opportunity to carry him so that he can focus on his mental health recovery. This journey back to health is expensive and at times lonely for all who walk it. Even with insurance, these stays can cost the participant tens of thousands of dollars, and that does not cover their regular cost of living that they must maintain while focusing on their recovery.

Thankfully, Neal does not have to do this alone - he has us. Any amount given will go directly to Neal to cover the expenses of his stay and reduce the burden of having to choose between healthcare and a place to return home. We can be the change someone we love so much needs right now, and it would be the honor of a lifetime to be that for someone as magnificent as Neal.