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.

For my Iron Phi Event, I have chosen the North Florida Warrior Dash.  Warrior Dash is a 5k obsticle course.  This should be both challenging and enjoyable.  The race is March 31, 2012.  I am running in the 1:30pm time slot.  To find out more information, visit the Warrior Dash website.

This event is also the official Iron Phi event for the Southeast Region.  By holding the event in North Florida, hopefully many chapters can participate and become Iron Phi Chapters by raising $10,000.  In addition to the prizes you get from becoming an Iron Phi, we have several other prizes.  The first finisher from our "team" will get an Iron Phi jacket, as will the top fundraiser.  The top fundraising chapter will also get a special prize from Iron Phi and the ALS Association

Since this is my region, I thought I would provide some additional incentives.  If I can get multiple chapters to become Iron Phi chatpers and get good participation for my event, I will wear more and more embarrasing items during the race.  I will wear a piece of clothing (headband, t-shirt, etc.) from the school with the most participation.

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 $1000. So I need your help. Would you please consider making a donation of $10?  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 to Iron Phi to me at 2 South Campus Ave, Oxford, OH 45056 if you'd rather donate that way.

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,
Alex