Alzheimer's

Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s Issues $20,000 to Pedal for Alzheimer’s

April 12, 2024 – The Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s golf tournament issues a $20,000 gift to Pedal for Alzheimer’s in an effort to further the mission of the organization. Knoxville health expert Eddie Reymond completed the 8-day, 550-hole charity golf event to spread awareness about brain and mental health and to raise funds to fight Alzheimer’s.

The Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s golf tournament issues a $20,000 gift to Pedal for Alzheimer’s in an effort to further the mission of the organization. Knoxville health expert Eddie Reymond completed the 8-day, 550-hole charity golf event to spread awareness about brain and mental health and to raise funds to fight Alzheimer’s.

Reymond celebrated his 55th birthday in an epic fashion that challenged himself both physically and mentally. For eight days, Reymond set out to walk the hilly terrain at The Club at Gettysvue with no golf cart and carrying his bag.

“Because of incredible support from the community and a like-minded mission, we are proud to raise money for Pedal for Alzheimer’s,” Reymond said. “Thanks to everyone who showed their support by golfing, donating and shopping to benefit the cause. Together, we will make a difference!”

The day one golf tournament welcomed a great turnout of teams that experienced the private golf club and participated in competitions such as closest to the pin and longest drive. Celebrities such as Wes Roach, David Holmes, Scott “Hot Sauce” Holtzman and Missy Kane showed their support by participating and cheering on Reymond.

Watch the recap here.

“It is an incredible feat that Eddie accomplished, and his drive to make a big impact for Alzheimer’s is to be honored. The support that rallied and the dollars given will be put to use to further the mission of funding Alzheimer’s research, education, support and care. We are grateful for Eddie and the team that helped make this event a tremendous success,” Josh Crisp, Founder and President of the Board of Directors, said.

Reymond would go on to play each day after the tournament for the following seven consecutive days. After day three and walking 153 holes at the course, the physical and mental challenge started to begin. The hills were beginning to take a big toll on his ankles and quads. Waking up on day four with swollen ankles and aggravating quad pain, Reymond wasn’t sure he would be able to finish the event. That’s when the mental toughness set in. He reminded himself to take it one hole at a time. Hole after hole Reymond had to fight through the pain and challenge his mental toughness to keep moving forward.

After day four, Remond accomplished the halfway mark and reminded himself that he had to keep fighting through the pain just to get to the next day. Waking up on day five, he recounted a new mindset that nothing was going to stand in his way of completing the goal! He continued to fight, hole after hole, to push through physical and mental challenges to raise funds for Alzheimer’s.

After the eight days of sunup to sundown golf, Reymond logged over 101 hours, walked over 208 miles, and completed 550 holes of golf at The Club at Gettysvue.

Event Manager Brandon “Monk” Feehery and volunteers from Pedal for Alzheimer’s supported Remond each day of the event. Reymond is pleased to present the $20,000 gift to help Pedal for Alzheimer’s continue the mission in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

The golf tournament was sponsored by title sponsor Harper Auto, Solinity Marketing, Inward Half, Visit Knoxville, Podium Sports, Eddie’s Health Shoppe, Physio LAB, Marble City Family Chiropractic, New Balance of Knoxville, Juicebeats Photography, DKLEVY Architectural Firm, and Redefine Nutrition.

You can still make a donation here.

Pedal for Alzheimer’s announces new partnership with professional cycling team, Nashville Local Cycling (NLC). NLC photo with PFA Ambassador.

Pedal for Alzheimer’s Announces Partnership with Professional Cycling Team

Pedal for Alzheimer’s announces new partnership with professional cycling team, Nashville Local Cycling (NLC) making Pedal for Alzheimer’s the official non-profit charity of NLC. The two organizations are committed to utilizing cycling events and teams to further the growth and mission to spread awareness and raise funds for Alzheimer’s research, education, support and care.

“The nationally recognized cycling team brings a new element to Pedal for Alzheimer’s as we proudly partner with NLC to take both organizations to the next level,” Josh Crisp, Founder of Pedal for Alzheimer’s said. “The group’s level of competitive drive along with a shared passion to fight Alzheimer’s makes for a great partnership.”

NLC is a cycling team with a footprint large enough to encourage true change and growth in the sport. The team features professional, club and a junior level of cyclists. Through cycling events such as crit races, group rides and fondo series, the partnership encourages increased use of cycling events to rally passionate individuals to carry the fight to Alzheimer’s.

“Nashville Local Cycling is thrilled to partner with Pedal for Alzheimer’s. The level of passion and work ethic these two groups bring together is fantastic and I expect great things,” Michaelee Bowes, President of Nashville Local Cycling said. “Always surround yourself with people that elevate you. With this partnership, I see our race team and our ability to help a wonderful cause taken to a whole new level.”

Since the inception of NLC, the team has focused on growth. Through racing bikes locally, encouraging new individuals to enter the sport and live healthier lifestyles, NLC provides a unique experience for both club and professional riders to promote cycling through community outreach, and competition at all levels.

“NLC has a legacy of using their well known and established platform to help organizations like Pedal for Alzheimer’s. This partnership is a testament to two organizations striving to make a difference not only in the cycling community but a passion for helping those affected with Alzheiemr’s,” said Monk Feehery, Event Manager for Pedal for Alzheimer’s. “I couldn’t be more excited to be working hand in hand with the NLC team to continue the fight against Alzheimer’s together.”

The organizations will provide opportunities for events nationally in 2024. Learn more about events and ways to get involved at pedalforalzheimers.org.

Knoxville Health Expert Announces Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s Charity Golf Event

Knoxville health expert Eddie Reymond announces the Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s charity golf event that will welcome celebrities and the public to join in the fight against Alzheimer’s. The 8-day event is set for March 18 – 25, 2024 at The Club at Gettysvue with a kickoff event on day one which will welcome celebrity support such as Curt Maggitt, Scott Stallings, Mike Murray, Keith Delong, Missy Kane, Michelle Marciniak, and more.

Reymond will celebrate his 55th birthday and chose to do so in a way that stretches his physical and mental endurance all while making a difference for a cause that is close to his heart. The eight days of sunup to sundown golfing will feature approximately 1,000ft of elevation and 5+ miles of walking for each round of 18 holes. This is in addition to the golf bag he will carry, and no golf cart used. Reymond is training for the grueling level of physical and mental fatigue.

“Cognitive health is so important and if I can help make a difference for the future of Alzheimer’s, I’m proud to push my mind and body to extreme measures,” Eddie Reymond said. “As I watched heroes like Pat Summitt and others face the disease, I wish I could have done more to help. There’s something inside of me that feels like I can help do that now.”

The kickoff event on March 18th is open to the public to golf with Reymond and the celebrities, as well as spectator passes available for purchase. Awards for closest to the pin and longest drive will be honored. Proceeds will benefit Pedal for Alzheimer’s which carries on the mission to spread awareness and raise funds for Alzheimer’s research, education, support, and care.

“We are proud to support Eddie’s intense measure to raise funds for Alzheimer’s,” Josh Crisp, Board President said. “Long days of endurance punishment on the body is much like the days for those facing the disease. Pedal for Alzheimer’s couldn’t be more honored to carry on the fight for those who can’t.”

The Eddie’s 550 Tee Off for Alzheimer’s event is open to the public March 18th for a shotgun start at 12:00pm EST. The title sponsor is Harper Auto and other sponsors include Inward Half, Visit Knoxville, Podium Sports, Eddie’s Health Shoppe, and Solinity Marketing. To learn more about sponsoring and to register, visit Pedalforalzheimers.org.

Pedal for Pat Event Raises $50,000 to Benefit the Pat Summitt Foundation

The Pedal for Pat charity cycling event announces it raised $50,000 to benefit the Pat Summitt Foundation. The 501(c)3 nonprofit, Pedal for Alzheimer’s, hosted the 12-day, 1,098-mile cycling event in honor of each of Coach Pat Summitt’s 1,098 victories. The team pedaled through five states with stops at some of the South’s finest universities to honor Summitt’s legacy and spread awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.

“The mission of the organization is made possible due to elite humans like those who pedaled, volunteered, and supported Pedal for Pat,” Josh Crisp, Board President said. “It is through generosity and commitment that we are able to support the great work of the Pat Summitt Foundation.”

The organization was pleased to team up with Lady Vol MVP and Hall of Famer Michelle Marciniak to show respect to her beloved basketball coach and mentor, the late-legendary coach Pat Summitt.

“This team accomplished so much together, and I know Pat would be proud,” Michelle Marciniak, Summitt Cyclist said. “The Pedal for Alzheimer’s organization is doing great work, and I’m proud to work with them and the Foundation to carry on the fight against Alzheimer’s in Pat’s honor.”

Marciniak continues to show dedication to making a difference in memory of Pat Summitt by reflecting on the profound impact that the legendary coach had not only on her life but on the lives of countless others.

Pedal for Pat Team 2023 Pat Summitt Foundation beneficiary of event by Pedal for Alzheimer's raised by cycling team from across the country

The Pat Summitt Foundation was started by Pat and Tyler Summitt in 2011 to advance research for a cure, provide support for patients and caregivers, and promote education and awareness. The Foundation carries out its mission by supporting nonprofit organizations throughout the region, including the Pat Summitt Clinic. In conjunction with UT Medical Center, the Clinic opened its doors in 2017 and has since treated over 5,000 patients from 25 states. More information on the work of the Foundation can be found at PatSummitt.org.

“Pat was determined to beat this disease and make an impact. We are proud to continue her fight. We couldn’t have the success we do or reach the amount of patients and caregivers without the help from groups like Pedal for Alzheimer’s and the Summitt Cyclists,” said Morgan Vance, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Pat Summitt Foundation.

The Pedal for Pat team, led by Josh Crisp and Michelle Marciniak, will present a check to the Pat Summitt Foundation at the Lady Vols basketball game at Thompson Boling Arena on Sunday, January 7th at noon EST.

Regan Craig and Carl White, Grandaddy during the Holidays

Why I Ride: Ambassador Regan Craig

While I’m not sure he ever owned one himself, my grandfather bought every bike I owned as a child. He grew up in the Great Depression and had neither finances nor the time for a bicycle, but that didn’t stop him from wanting to ride.

He was one of those guys who exemplify the Greatest Generation. He had to leave school at age 12 to take over the family farm, then served in Europe during the Second World War. He took advantage of the opportunities military service provided including earning his high school equivalency.

Grandaddy was able to build a successful construction business and start a family. Grandaddy either lived next door or across the cotton patch all the years we shared on this Earth. I often rode the bike he gave me down a field road to get from my home to his.

We lost Grandaddy to Alzheimer’s in 2001. I started cycling a few years later. When Kyle Dortch shared about Pedal for Alzheimer’s in late 2022, I knew I had to be involved.

I’ve lost many other family members to Alzheimer’s, but my grandfather, Carl White, is the reason I ride. He comes to mind on lots of solo rides, especially passing a field road on the edge of a cotton patch.

WRITTEN BY:

Regan Craig

Reagan Craig is a Pedal for Alzheimer’s Ambassador from Jackson Tennessee.

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning

Why I Ride: Ambassador Luca Giori

Pedal for Alzheimer’s, a 501c3 non-profit charitable platform, holds a special place in my heart. As a soccer player turned cyclist, I embarked on this incredible journey in 2019 after rupturing my ACL. While I’ve always been an athlete, the world of road cycling opened up new horizons for me. Little did I know that my newfound passion would intersect with a cause that’s deeply personal to me.

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning In 2011, one month after arriving in the United States from Italy, I received the news of my grandmother’s passing. It wasn’t Alzheimer’s, but rather a brain tumor that had slowly grown over the past year. Although different, her decline in mental faculties bore striking similarities to the mental deterioration experienced by Alzheimer’s patients. Witnessing her gradual loss of the ability to perform even the simplest tasks was heart-wrenching. It was a stark reminder of the relentless nature of diseases that rob individuals of their cherished memories and abilities.

Beyond my own experience, I’ve seen the profound impact of Alzheimer’s on several of my close friends who are caring for parents battling this relentless disease. Alzheimer’s affects not only the afflicted individuals but also their entire families, who bear the emotional and physical burdens of caregiving. It’s a disease that touches the lives of countless people, leaving no community untouched.

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning As a veterinarian, I’ve dedicated my life to the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence. This commitment extends beyond the health of animals to the well-being of all living beings. Cognitive decline is a recognized condition not only in humans but also in our beloved animal companions. In the spirit of “One Health,” a collaborative approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, plants, and the environment, I felt a calling to become an ambassador for Pedal for Alzheimer’s.

My mission as a Pedal for Alzheimer’s ambassador is twofold. First, I aim to educate and raise awareness about Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects not only people but also our cherished animals. The shared suffering and the potential shared solutions underline the importance of comprehensive research, embracing the interconnection between our well-being and that of our animal companions.

Luca Giori Why I ride Pedal fro Alzheimer's Ambassador cognitive functioning
My journey with Pedal for Alzheimer’s is not only a testament to my personal growth as a cyclist but also a commitment to a cause that touches my heart deeply. I ride with Pedal for Alzheimer’s not only for those who are afflicted but also for the hope of a brighter future where Alzheimer’s is no longer a source of pain and loss. Together, we pedal towards a world free from the shadow of this devastating disease, where memories are cherished, not stolen, and where the health and well-being of all living beings are valued and protected.

Learn more about the Pedal for Alzheimer’s Ambassador program.

Donate in honor of Luca and to help further his impact.

Luca Giori Pedal for Alzheimer's ambassador 2023

WRITTEN BY:

Dr. Luca Giori

Luca Giori, DVM, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical & Diagnostic Sciences at The University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Lady Vol Alumni Michelle Marciniak participates in Pedal for Pat in Honor of Pat Summitt

PEDAL FOR PAT RIDERS LOG MILES AND MEMORIES

Before Michelle Marciniak decided to get on a bike to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease, she estimated the farthest she had ever pedaled was 25 miles. In September, the former Lady Vol point guard will join the Pedal for Pat peloton for 1,098 miles across five states in 12 days.

Lady Vol Alumni Michelle Marciniak Gifts $50,000 in Honor of Pat Summitt

Pedal for Alzheimer’s announces a generous donation of $50,000 from former Lady Vol MVP and Hall of Famer Michelle Marciniak. This donation was given in memory of her beloved basketball coach and mentor, the late-legendary coach Pat Summitt.

Marciniak’s generous donation will enable Pedal for Alzheimer’s to further its mission of spreading awareness for Alzheimer’s disease through fundraising events like Pedal for Pat. This 1098-mile, 12-day endurance cycling event will feature a team of Summitt Cyclists who will pedal in honor of Summitt’s career NCAA wins.

“I witnessed the most powerful woman and coach in the world suffer and be taken from this earth because of Alzheimer’s and I have made it one of my life’s missions to continue her fight through raising funds and spreading awareness,” Michelle Marciniak said. “I am honored to continue her legacy by supporting the mission of Pedal for Alzheimer’s in this way as we fight this disease together. To this day, the most common question I am asked is, ‘what was it like playing for Pat Summitt’? Even after playing for Pat nearly 30 years ago, I still hear her voice in my head. She made an impact like no other.”

Pedal for Alzheimer’s is thrilled to host the Pedal for Pat cycling event September 11-22, 2023. The team will pedal in five states and stop by some of the South’s finest universities to honor Summitt’s legacy and spread awareness for Alzheimer’s.

“The organization is grateful for the commitment and generosity from Michelle,” Josh Crisp, Board President said. “Gifts like this allow the organization to carry out its mission of raising funds for Alzheimer’s research, education, support, and care.”

In addition to her renowned basketball career, Marciniak has shown immense compassion and dedication to making a positive difference in the world. Her donation in memory of Pat Summitt reflects the profound impact that the legendary coach had not only on her life but on the lives of countless others.

Show your support by participating in the upcoming Pedal for Pat charity cycling event or by making a donation today at PedalforPat.info. Learn how you can join the Summitt Cyclists, or pedal for one or more days with the team. Visit pedalforpat.info for details.

Ambassador Julie Dortch and Grandfather with Alzheimer's cyclist Why I Ride

Why I Ride: Ambassador Julie Dortch

Tapping into my “why” for riding bicycles actually begins with my background in running. For years, I ran recreationally and always called it ‘jogging’ instead of running. It wasn’t until my friend and her sisters convinced me to join on their long-run Saturdays that I realized moving my body at any pace was considered running for me, and after my first half-marathon in the heat of Tennessee in July, I was hooked. Throughout my miles pounding the pavement, I began to use the time as reflection on God’s blessings in my life. Many miles were spent praying for others and receiving promises on my own life.

Fast forward through a few running-related injuries and my gears shifted towards riding bicycles with my husband, Kyle. We met so many amazing people through years of riding and racing road bikes. Pedal for Alzheimer’s stood out along the way as an organization that we were introduced to by a mutual friend and knew we had to support. At the time, my grandfather, Kenneth Stafford, was only in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and still mostly the same, walking every morning and joining my parents for supper every night.

When I think about my journey with cycling, I’m reminded of the natural ebb and flow of life. Putting in hard work, grinding on days that seemed to be a chore, but enjoying the sense of accomplishment and the company of amazing people.

As the years progressed in my grandfather’s disease, I witnessed firsthand the work ethic of my mother in caring for him. I am quickly reminded the grit and determination that I love about cycling was more than likely ingrained in me from my grandfather’s hard work ethic. Observing my mother caring for her father was a true display of a long line of character traits that I still admire and aim to emulate.

Ambassador Julie Dortch and Grandfather with Alzheimer's Why I Ride

He worked a full time job as postmaster of my small hometown while running a local dry-cleaning business. He then stayed busy even in retirement with fishing, woodworking, and gardening. When I explain that I honor my grandfather’s memory by cycling, it is not because he loved to ride bikes. Actually, I’m not sure I ever saw him on a bicycle. But, his drive, hard work ethic, and love for family time are some of the same qualities that I connect with cycling, and I’m determined to continue those qualities in his honor.

Learn more about the Pedal for Alzheimer’s Ambassador program.

Make a donation in honor of Julie and in loving memory of Mr. Kenneth Stafford.

WRITTEN BY:

Julie Dortch

Julie and her husband, Kyle, reside in Springfield, Tennessee where she is an assistant principal for the local school district. They enjoy riding mountain bikes, camping in their van, and loving their 12-year-old furry family member, Gunner.

University of Tennessee's Dr. Robin Hardin now on the board of directors for Pedal for Alzheimer's

PEDAL FOR ALZHEIMER’S WELCOMES NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE’S DR. ROBIN HARDIN

Sport Management Leader Joins Nonprofit’s Board to Advance Alzheimer’s Awareness and Research

Pedal for Alzheimer’s announces growth on the Board of Directors with the appointment of respected University of Tennessee advisor and professor, Dr. Robin Hardin. As a leader in the Sport Management program in the Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies at the University of Tennessee, Dr. Hardin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization in the management and execution of events.

“I am appreciative of the opportunity to join such an outstanding and dynamic organization,” Dr. Hardin said. “Nearly everyone has felt the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia through their own experiences or those of family and friends. I am grateful for the opportunity to provide my event management expertise to the Board of Directors.”

As an accomplished scholar and active member of the local and national sports community, Dr. Hardin has been recognized for his extensive research on the governance of collegiate athletics, sport management education, and adaptive sport and recreation. With more than 100 scholarly publications and over 150 scholarly presentations to his name, Dr. Hardin has made a significant impact on the field.

The appointment of Dr. Hardin to Pedal For Alzheimer’s Board of Directors reflects the organization’s commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s research and supporting those affected by the disease. His extensive knowledge and experience in event management and athletics will be a valuable asset to the organization as it seeks to expand its reach and engage with new audiences.

“The board is very excited to have Dr. Hardin join as we continue to grow the organization,” Josh Crisp, Board President said. “It is very rewarding to see professionals from various backgrounds come together to further the mission of Pedal for Alzheimer’s. Dr. Hardin’s experience in sports and event management will add to the organization’s capacity to further the reach and impact of our mission.”

Pedal For Alzheimer’s is committed to funding Alzheimer’s research as well as providing education, support and care for those affected. The organization’s annual Pedal for Alzheimer’s event raises critical funds to support research and increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease. With the addition of Dr. Hardin to its Board of Directors, Pedal For Alzheimer’s is well-positioned to continue its important work and make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

As a board member of Pedal for Alzheimer’s, Dr. Hardin will contribute his expertise to help further the organization’s mission of raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease research and support. The organization is thrilled to have Dr. Hardin on board and looks forward to working with him to advance its cause.