BlastRadius

Some of you may have noticed the message in my signature and some
have already donated (Thank you). I'm in the home stretch of my
fund-raising and have about $1100 to raise before August 23rd.

The donations will go a long way toward helping those suffering from
Arthritis, young and old. Of course the donation is tax deductible as well.

You can make a donation in any amount online or by mailing a check.
https://2010cccnca.kintera.org/henrymar

Thanks again,
Henry


Here's my original letter describing why I'm riding this event:

I am writing to tell you of a personal challenge I have taken on. It's a
challenge of physical endurance -- a challenge of making a difference. In
September, I will be starting in San Francisco to participate in a 525 mile
bicycle tour. However, this will be no ordinary trip - I will be cycling for
the Arthritis Foundation as a member of the "California Coast Classic Bicycle
Tour". On behalf of the Arthritis Foundation, the tour will be raising funds to
support arthritis research and community-based education programs for men,
women and children affected by arthritis. My goal is to raise $3,000 by August
23 in order to participate in this tremendous event. The event will run from
September 25 - October 2, 2010.


My good friend David Strobelt has been living with arthritis since adolescence
and I will be joining him on his fourth ride. It has been painful and at times
debilitating for David - he is truly an inspiration to his friends, colleagues
and his wonderful family, especially his 4 kids.

The facts about arthritis are alarming - nearly 46 million Americans currently
suffer from arthritis - that's one out of every five people! New projections
predict arthritis to be the epidemic of the future. By the year 2020, the
number of people with arthritis will almost double, affecting major life
activities such as working, going to school, enjoying leisure activities, or
keeping house. Arthritis research can make a difference. The Arthritis
Foundation devotes more than $11 million annually to research and is leading
the way to more successful treatments for arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation
also makes a difference in the lives of those affected by arthritis by
providing programs that help people with arthritis and their families better
understand and cope with their disease.

Supporting the Arthritis Foundation by participating in the California Coast
Classic Bicycle Tour is a very serious and important challenge that I am
committed to. I hope you will help me in my quest to raise $3,000 by making a
tax-deductible donation in any amount to the Arthritis Foundation. To make
your donation please visit: https://2010cccnca.kintera.org/henrymar


Sincerely,
Henry Mar

Red Rider

Thanks for the reminder, Henry. My check will be in tomorrow's mail. Good luck, and thanks for taking on the cause.

BlastRadius

Thanks Deb, every bit helps.

My most worrisome challenge is figuring out this camping thing. Seven nights of pitching a tent (which I don't have) and sleeping <gasp> outdoors!

Beaker

Good luck Henry, it sounds like a lot of fun for a good cause.