We Do It For Lou

This semester, I will be attempting 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.

The net proceeds will support ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) research, education, screening, and treatment. It will also help strengthen an organization (Phi Delta Theta) that has had a lasting impact on my life.

Since Lou Gehrig was number 4, my Iron Phi event will be riding my bike 40 miles on the MKT and Katy trail (Columbia, Missouri) in April.

Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS 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 is why I am becoming an Iron Phi. To do something bold about Lou Gehrig's disease.

I have 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 in my Instagram and Facebook bio link title “IRON PHI DONATION PAGE” or donate through my Venmo (Ben_McDonough).

I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me - by supporting me in my fundraising efforts!

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Sincerely,

Ben McDonough