I stride in memory of my hero, inspiration, and Dad, Leonard Rich. 

In May 2017, Leonard was diagnosed with CJD after months of symptoms and misdiagnoses. And, after an unusually slow progression, he passed away on October 8, 2017. 

Leonard was an outspoken but kind-hearted man who cared dearly for his family and friends. He raised three wonderful children with his wife, Julie, while serving his country in the Coast Guard for 28 years. 

I stride to raise awareness about CJD and to support the work of the CJD Foundation.

CJD is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease with no treatment or cure. While it is considered a rare condition, we actually aren't sure how prevalent it is because reporting is not required and many go undiagnosed before passing away. The CJD Foundation funds CJD research to work towards finding the cause and possibly treatments or a cure. 

The CJD Foundation also provides support for the families of loved ones with CJD. They have ample resources for educational information, doctors, and support groups. One thing that I've appreciated the most is the family meetings that include a presentation by one of the researchers. 

Thanks for reading! I hope you'll join me in supporting the CJD Foundation!

To donate to my personal fundraising page, text STRIDES2023 to 50155. 

Donations of $250 and above are considered sponsorships.

Sponsorship Levels:

• Premier: $20,000
• Diamond: $10,000
• Platinum: $5,000
• Gold: $1,000
• Silver: $500
• Bronze: $250

Premier, Diamond, and Platinum Sponsors will have their name or logo displayed on participant t-shirts, the Strides for CJD website, and signage. Gold Sponsors will have their name or logo displayed on the Strides for CJD website, and will have their name (not their logo) listed on participant T-shirts and signage. Silver and Bronze Sponsors will have their name listed on the Strides for CJD website only.