A group of three cyclists began a 1,200-mile journey across the Southwest this weekend to benefit Project Alive and combat the rare disease Hunter Syndrome.
The Ride for Project Alive was organized by Josh Bickerstaff to help his long-time friends Allison and Jon Muedder, and their son Finn, who was diagnosed with Hunter Syndrome as a toddler.
Bickerstaff will cycle the entire distance between Charlotte, NC and Fort Lauderdale, FL to raise awareness about Hunter Syndrome.
“Project Alive is so close in terms of the research and the drug itself is in development,” Bickerstaff said.
“There is so much potential to this research; it’s tangible. I just wanted to do something that would allow people to come around and support these families in their efforts.”
The rare genetic condition causes a buildup of cellular waste throughout the body, which causes progressive loss of physical, and often mental, function. Life expectancy for boys with Hunter Syndrome is “early teens,” according to Project Alive.
Bickerstaff’s ride will take him through four states and has raised $35,673 three days in. Participants will raise money through sponsorships and each cyclist has their own fundraising goal.
They also welcome any cyclist who wants to join in for any part of the ride. Georgia locations include Athens, Atlanta, and Savannah.
To learn more about the project and view the route map, visit ride.projectalive.org.