Bicycle trek raising money for ALS research
7/20/2005
By KATHRYN BROWN
East Oregonian Publishing Co.
In 2002, Mike Kreuzer’s 36-year-old son Michael Jr. was diagnosed with
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Learning that his son has an incurable
disease was devastating for Mike and his family.
Kreuzer, a professional fund-raiser from East Windsor, Conn., was already
planning to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark’s expedition by
following the Corps of Discovery’s route west by bicycle. His son’s diagnosis
with ALS inspired Kreuzer to see his bike ride as an opportunity to raise money
for ALS research.
He is completing the journey in two parts. Last summer he departed from St.
Louis, Mo. and cycled to Bismark, N.D. in 21 days.
This summer, he left Bismarck on June 23 and continued his journey west. Facing
headwinds and climbing over the Rocky Mountains, he is riding an average of 65
miles each day, winding his way through Montana and Idaho. After passing through
southeastern Washington, he spent the night in Umatilla, Ore. on July 17.
Then, he’ll cross the Columbia River several times in the final stretch. He
plans to spend nights in Maryhill, Wash., Cascade Locks, Ore., Ridgefield and
Cathlamet before finally arriving in Astoria on the afternoon of June 22.
Four friends are joining Kreuzer on the last days of his trek as he follows the
Columbia River. His wife, four daughters and their families will greet him at
the Astoria Best Western, along with two of his three sons and seven of his 13
grandchildren.
His son Michael, who has ALS, daughter-in-law Joanne and their two young
children are traveling from Pocatello, Idaho to celebrate the end of Kreuzer’s
ride.
The ride has raised over $20,000 for ALS research, which the family hopes
Michael will live to benefit from.
Donate to the ALS Association, www.alsa.org
