Ironman to support ALS research

In August of 2022, I met Lori Cramer through physical therapy. My colleague had done an evaluation on her and asked for my second opinion. After the evaluation, something didn’t sit right with me, so I suggested that she see a neurologist to figure out what was going on. Lori went to multiple neurologists over the proceeding months with some answers that didn’t fit her presentation. After an initial diagnosis of ALS in New York City and a meeting with Dr. Kolb, Lori received the answer that we all feared: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

The news was shocking to all of us since Lori was told that ALS was off the table from early providers that she saw. A year into her diagnosis, we have seen a change in her functional status, yet her heart remains bigger than ever. She is able to show up to physical therapy, game nights and other events with a smile on her face and a laugh. This is despite struggling with mobility challenges that limit her daily capabilities. She is the epitome of strength and has inspired those around her to live through a different lens.

On September 15th, I will be competing in a half Ironman (70.3) in Michigan. I am competing on behalf of the Cramer family to help raise money for ALS research at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center through Dr. Steven Kolb. Dr. Kolb is doing amazing research in the lab, and I hope this funding can give hope to those who have been diagnosed with ALS.

Every year, many people pass away from this debilitating disease as countless physicians look for a cure. Millions of dollars a year goes towards research; however, there is still a need for more funding to complete countless lab testing. Our goal is to raise funds to help with the day-to-day costs for research. Your generous gift will instill hope to those individuals who have been diagnosed with ALS, as research is where the answers will be found, keeping a cure for this disease in-sight.