Spring Training has begun!

No, not baseball. Multiple Sclerosis 150 Ride.

Yes I am at it again! Four years ago I ran a half marathon here in Dallas in memory of my grandmother. This time I will be venturing from Frisco to Fort Worth Texas on a road bike for 160 miles.

The SAM'S CLUB MS 150 is a two-day, cycling adventure through North Texas that raises funds to help people living with MS. I will be participating in this event on May 3 and 4, 2008. Luckily, I am not doing this on my own. I am training with other cyclists who are also getting ready for this ride.

More importantly than my physical commitment to the program is my commitment to rise funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Multiple sclerosis (MS) usually strikes adults in the prime of life – between the ages of 20 and 50. It is a chronic disease of the central nervous system affecting the brain and spinal cord. One new case of MS is diagnosed every hour. It comes and goes unpredictably, leaving people to wonder, “Will I become paralyzed, blind or have trouble walking? Will I be able to raise my family and continue my career?” One of the greatest contributions of the Society is toward research. Great progress has been made in the treatment of this disease, but continued funding for this research is essential. I have set a personal goal to raise $500 toward this effort.

I am riding this race in honor of a dear friend, Rita, who was diagnosed with MS in 2000 while in her twenties. She is a dynamic woman who likes to share her story with others to help educate them about MS. I will wear a bandana signed by Rita throughout the two day event to share with everyone that I am doing this in her honor.

As I ride the course, you will be with me in spirit and your sponsorship will inspire me. Any amount is greatly appreciated, whatever you can do to contribute matters…it all adds up! Thank you so much for your support and generosity!


Sincerely,

Ardis