I am riding again this year to help find a cure for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency or Alpha-1 for short.  Alpha-1 is a genetic condition that can cause adults of any age to develop emphysema and COPD, can lead to liver failure in newborns and kids, and can cause cirrhosis of the liver in adults.  Most people with Alpha-1 in the US don't even know they've inherited it, yet identification requires only a simple blood test.  It is much more common than other heretidary conditions, such as Cystic Fibrosis, yet most people have never even heard of it.  My day job is taking care of people with Alpha-1 as a physician/researcher at National Jewish Health in Denver.

Last year was a blast!  I'm so glad I 'escaped to the Cape' and rode in the ALA's Autumn Bike Ride on Cape Cod.  I'm going to do my best again this year!  In spite of great offers from Lance's team, I've decided to stay with Team Alpha-1 and I'll be at the Cape in the beginning of October making something of fool of myself, but you'll need to pay to see me do it!  So donate to a great cause, help find a cure for Alpha-1, and have fun watching a doc get beat-up by his patients on the road. Or, join me by signing up with Team Alpha-1 and coming to the ride yourself!

Unfortunately, because of my speaking schedule, I will only be able to ride on the two of the three days of this event.

About Team Alpha-1: As Mary Pierce, Team Captain, explains, “Team Alpha-1 is a state of mind. Its mission is to increase awareness, early detection, and get fit all at the same time. This not only gives individuals around the country a chance to pick teams and organize but as a result they raise money for research!”

Team Alpha-1 is comprised of Alphas, family and friends who volunteer to participate or assist in local, national and international sporting events.  Team Alpha-1 was created to promote awareness, detection and encourage participation of Alphas across the country to raise funds in support of Alpha-1 research or programs.  For more information click Team Alpha-1

About the Ride 

Again this year, Alpha-1 friends and family are making their way to Cape Cod to travel 160 miles in 3 days to help raise funds for Alpha-1 research. To ride as a member of Team Alpha-1, please register at www.teamalpha1.org. There is a registration fee, and fundraising is required. The Alpha-1 Foundation will write one check to the ALA for our registration fees and the $500 pledge minimum per rider. Whatever is raised over the $500 minimum, will benefit the Alpha-1 Foundation. 

A two day, 105 mile option is available. Enjoy the scenic coast of Cape Cod as you spend a long weekend with friends and family.

We ride RAIN or SHINE and provide overnight accommodations, medical and technical support, food and beverages and more!

To create your own Team Alpha-1 Escape to the Cape fundraising page just click above on “I want a page like this” or Click Here and GET STARTED! 

Many thanks for your support-- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!