When I was 18, my dad passed away in 2003 after a five-year battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. After his passing, I was left fatherless, but luckily, he instilled a framework of values that allowed me to become the driver of my life and now teach others to do the same when life’s challenges seem unbearable.

To honor my dad, Doug Ordway, and raise money for I AM ALS, I rode my bicycle for 825 miles in 10 days from Washington, D.C., to Indiana. 

At the end of my ride, my sister Jennifer co-hosted the Robert’s Ride Celebration at the Dunes Pavilion, which featured guest speakers U.S. Senator Mike Braun (IN) and ALS patient and advocate Tim Werner.

More than $100,000 was raised for I AM ALS, and the Dunes Pavilion was packed with friends who welcomed me home.

I can’t express how humbled and thankful I am for everyone’s support. Whether you donated your time, treasure, or talent, it did not go unnoticed and is making a huge difference for ALS patients and their families.