HomeMacklin Gifford
California Psi - Loyola Marymount University
My Iron Phi Story
3 Hours, 1 Cause: A Swim to End ALS
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This spring, I am embarking on a remarkable journey to become an Iron Phi, a prestigious distinction awarded to a select few members of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. Our mission is to support the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) through dedicated fundraising and athletic endeavors.
Why This Cause Matters
Lou Gehrig, a member of Phi Delta Theta, is the namesake of ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year, leading to the progressive degeneration of motor neurons, which eventually results in paralysis and death. At this time, there is no known cure, however Phi Delta Theta is committed to aiding the search and supporting those affected by this illness.
Why This Matters to Me
Among the many gifts that Phi Delta Theta has given me, the most impactful one has been perspective. Apart from the Ice Bucket Challenge 11 years ago, I had no knowledge of the ALS disease or the impact that it can have on a family. Even more so, I also had no idea the strength and courage that those who fight it exhibit each day. Witnessing that determination through my chapter's philanthropic work has motivated me to become an Iron Phi and make an even larger difference.
My Event: A 3 Hour Swim Sprint
I began swimming competitively at the age of 6, and continued up through the end of high school before hanging it up. On April 13th, I return to make a difference.
To achieve my goal of becoming an Iron Phi, I will swim as many laps as I can in 3 consecutive hours. Money will be raised per lap that I swim as well as through flat donations that I recieve from additional donors. Anyone that wishes to participate can get in another lane and raise money per lap that they swim as well.
How You Can Help
I have set a personal fundraising goal of $2,500, and I need your help to reach it. Donors can either donate at a flat rate or a per-lap rate of any amount. Your generous donation will directly support ALS research, education, screening, and treatment efforts, as well as strengthening Phi Delta Theta's impact on the cause. Any contribution makes an immeasurable impact in this battle.
All ONLINE donations from U.S. residents are tax-deductible.
By supporting my fundraising efforts, you stand alongside my brothers and I in the fight against ALS. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and honor the legacy of Lou Gehrig.
Every endeavor takes a village. If Phi Delta Theta has taught me anything, it's that One Man is No Man.
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support.
With love,
Macklin M. Gifford
Loyola Marymount University, California Psi '27
Major: Environmental Studies/Pre-Law
Minor: Chinese Language
(720) 695-8922
mgiffor1@lion.lmu.edu
macklingifford2023@gmail.com
How Does My Donation Make a Difference?
Your donation towards an Iron Phi athlete equally supports two very important things: Supporting ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) through research and support of ALS families and leadership development for undergraduate members of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.
At the end of each year calendar year, the LiveLikeLou Foundation grants dollars raised through Iron Phi to fund its initiatives that support ALS research, scholarships to support the higher education goals of ALS dependents, and summer camp experiences for children who have a parent or grandparent with ALS.
Dollars used for undergraduate leadership development have and continue to help Phi Delta Theta educate more of its undergraduate members as they work to “Become the Greatest Version of Themselves.”
