We Do It For Lou

This year, I'll be attempting to become an Iron Phi - a distinction given to a small percentage of members within my Fraternity. The mission of Iron Phi is to strengthen the Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity and the impact it has on the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease through the fundraising and athletic efforts of its members. Lou Gehrig was a member of Phi Delta Theta, and our organization has taken an active role in finding a cure.

The net proceeds will support ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) research, education, screening and treatment. It will also help strengthen an organization (Phi Delta Theta) that has had a lasting impact on my life.

My Iron Phi story began on January 19, 2014 when I was officially initiated into the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.  Within the first month of being a Brother I saw a couple of my fellow Brothers start their own Iron Phi page and raise the money they needed, which they completed just a few months ago.  That is when I learned about it and realized what a great opportunity this was for me.  I was inspired by their actions and took it upon myself to follow in their footsteps.  Since the summer started I have been researching events that I can do that will push me to my limit.

I found finally found one and in September 2014 I will be completeing a sprint duathlon.  This duathlon is a 2.8 mile run followed by a 12.5 mile bike and then another 2.8 mile run.  It will be located in Orlando Florida. For more info on this event you can go to the link below.

http://www.epicsportsmarketing.com/events/epic-triathlon#section

According to The ALS Association's web site, approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body. The progressive degeneration of the motor neurons in ALS eventually leads to their death. That's why I'm becoming an Iron Phi. To do something bold about Lou Gehrig's disease.

I've set my personal goal at $1,000. So I need your help. Would you please consider making a donation of any amount (donations by US residents are tax-deducitble)? You can make a donation on this page by clicking on the "Make a Gift" link below the thermometer. You can also send a check made out to Iron Phi to me at 5328 Upper 182nd Street West Farmington, MN 55024 if you'd rather donate that way.  Please leave your email in the comments below so I can send you weekly updates of my progress throughtout the summer.

I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me - by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Sincerely,
Reece Lindquist