Gratitude.
It’s been several weeks since our weekend-long PedALS event. In that time, I’ve had ample opportunity to reflect and I’m left with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I filled a number of roles during that weekend: assisting bikers as they checked in, distributing swag bags after the ride, and working the merch table. Each of those roles afforded me chances to talk with participants and volunteers about why they were attending PedALS 2021. The conversations were unique but often framed around a similar query: “What brings you here?”
“I’m riding for my co-worker because he no longer can.”
“I’m walking for my uncle.”
“I’m here to support my neighbor.”
“We’re running to honor our friend.”
Those comments bring me back to gratitude. Our supportive community made this event such an incredible success: sponsors, pledgers, participants, and volunteers. Thank you to all of you who contributed your time, resources, and energy. You make it possible for us to continue our efforts supporting Michigan families experiencing ALS.