Hi. For the past 4 years, I have joined Chai Lifeline’s “Bike the Drive” event and biked Lake Shore Drive. Last year I actually biked 54 miles (the last 15 in the rain)! This year I am joining them again, as we bike 34 miles along the North Branch Trail of the Cook County Forest Preserve in the Northern suburbs of Chicago.

In 2010 and 2011 I was able, with your help, to raise unprecedented amounts of much needed funds for Chai Lifeline. Since my father, of blessed memory, had lost his quick battle with Leukemia in 2009 I have always dedicated my bike ride and funds raised in his memory. I can remember, after the first ride, calling him and telling him that I had biked a total of 30 miles (I had planned on biking only 15) and how proud he was that I was able to help such a worthy cause.

While I surpassed both my distance and fundraising goals last year, “Bike the Drive” was only the start for me. I had decided that I wanted to really dedicate myself to becoming more physically fit. A week after the bike ride I joined Weight Watchers. I am pleased to say that in just less than a year I have not only discovered there are things call fruits and vegetables, but I have also lost 24.6 pounds (as of 5/07/12). I have drastically changed both my own eating habits and realized the importance of being more mindful of choices in life. Joanie, Eli Meir, Rena Sara, and Miriam Tova not only motivate me, but see that you are never too old to change. That’s a true victory for me.

I have seen, first hand, how Chai Lifeline helps very sick children and their families. I personally know children that they service. I see families in my neighborhood that are given hope on a daily basis from the staff and volunteers at Chai Lifeline. Chai Lifeline provides year-round emotional, social, and financial support to more than 3,000 children and their families every year. In our area, Chai Lifeline Midwest offers access to two-dozen free programs and services that touch each member of the family, helping them to live full and happy lives despite the presence of illness.

My objective is to raise at least $2000.00 by race day, June 3rd, and I hope you will help me reach this goal. All donations are 100% tax deductible. If your company has a matching gift program, your gift may be doubled or tripled.

Thank you for supporting me, and in doing so, helping children and their families cope with the diagnosis, treatment and aftermath of serious pediatric illness. Please feel free to forward this to anyone who might be interested in supporting Chai Lifeline.

I am not the most physically fit guy in town, but I have the best trainers in the world working with me…my wife and three kids. I know in the past I’ve had your support and I’m hoping you will sponsor me once again. All you need to do is tp make any donation that you can!

To make a donation just click here:
www.tiny.cc/biketheforest

If interested, please feel free to forward this webpage to someone you know.

Warmly,
Neil