HomeJoe Nellis
Iowa Beta - University of Iowa
My Iron Phi Story
Welcome to My Personal Iron Phi Page
This summer, I'll be working 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.
Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) 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.
In attempts to do my own part in raising awareness for ALS and become an Iron Phi, I am going to be running the University of Okoboji Marathon on July 21st. This race will be acting as a stepping stone toward a larger goal of mine. Talking with one of my best friends earlier this year, he suggested that we run an ultra when he got back in the country (He's currently serving in the Peace Corps in Africa). I've always been game for crazy ideas, so immediately I was sold on the idea. 50 miles is a long ways though, so I felt that I should get comfortable with 26.2 first. I couldn't think of a better way to start this adventure than running the University of Okoboji Marathon back home at the lakes this summer. You can follow my progress at www.trainingpeaks.com/JoeNellis
I've set my personal goal at $1,000. So I need your help. 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 for Iron Phi to me at 225 S Gilbert Apt 2741, Iowa City, IA 52240 if you'd rather donate that way.
The net proceeds of my fundraising efforts will go toward ALS research, education, screening and treatment. It will also help strengthen an organization (Phi Delta Theta) that has had a lasting impact on my life.
I hope that you'll share in this incredible adventure with me, by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.
Thank you again for all your support!
Joe
My Personal Web Log
Topics
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.”
