There is a bike ride held every year by the MS society that goes from Cherry Hill NJ to Ocean City NJ. My sister and I have been riding it for the last five years as homage to our dad who was an avid biker but has had to stop due to his affliction with MS. Two years ago, as we crossed the finish line and saw our mom and grandparents cheering us on, I noticed that my mom was in tears. When we finally met up with them, I asked my mom was it was that she was crying. She said nothing and handed me a blue envelope with some money and a letter inside. This is how the letter reads.
Hello dear friend,
My name is Lonnie (last name here). I'm from Boyertown PA, between Phila and Reading. I am 54 years old and have been riding the MS 150 for approximately 17 years. I have been very fortunate because I am able to raise several thousand dollars every year. My goal is to keep riding until I am no longer able to.
The reason I do this is because I can. I only suffer with sore muscles for a few days after. The other reason why I do this is because I know you would if you could.
I get a very good feeling when I am being applauded by individuals stricken with MS. This is the least I can do to help stop this terrible disease I hope I am really helping people.
I want to try and help out in another way. My goal is to make you smile and at least feel good for a little while. Let me explain.
When I raise money for MS, some individuals will give cash instead of check. I divide up the cash and give it to people stricken with MS. This is the agreement I have with people who give me cash.
Remember, I am not trying to cure you. I just want you to have a good feeling and get a good smile out of you.
Here is my deal with you. Yes there are some rules with this gift:
If at all possible, you must use this for something fun. Maybe something you wanted to do or get but just could not because lack of extra cash.
You must contact me in some way and let me know what you did with it. You can write, e-mail and send pictures. This way I know I have reached my goal.It is not much, but if you are feeling good inside it must be just right.
Thanks for supporting me so I can continue to help fight MS.
Your friend, Lonnie (last name here)
He then provided his contact info at the bottom of the letter. In case you are wondering, my dad who can barely stand (let alone walk) has always wanted to skydive. When I find them, I'll upload the pictures.
