Welcome to VanderTri.com
I've created this site to share my stories, adventures, lessons learned in my journey through the world of triathlon with family, friends and frankly anyone who is interested.
Charley's Fund - Racing for a Good Cause
While I have personal reasons for participating in the sport of triathlon and my quest to qualify for and race in Kona, I have over my athletic career looked for opportunities to raise awareness and money for good causes.
Several years ago about the time I was beginning my triathlon journey, close friends Mitch and Mindy Leffler's young son Aidan was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a genetic disease which only affects boys and is fatal. Boys who are stricken with DMD generally end up being restricted to a wheel chair in their early teens and rarely live beyond their early twenties.
After talking with the Leffler's and asking how I can help they asked that I raise money for Charley's Fund. Charley's Fund is a charity which funnels their money solely into research to find a cure for DMD.
My ask is to for you to take a minute and consider what would your life be like if you couldn't use your legs or arms and consider making a donation. Researchers are on the path to finding a cure for this horrible disease and you can make a difference for childern like Charley and Aidan. To make any size donation to Charley's fund please see their donation page and please note in your donation "Michael Vanderhyde - Ironman Triathlon". Your consideration and support are greatly appreciated.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Events
No events currently scheduled in and around Seattle
I attended the Walk for Aidan on 5/17 at Sammamish High School. What a great turnout. I think the entire student body was either volunteering or participating and it was great to see such support. Aidan and I had a good but brief chat as he had lots of people to meet and play with.
For more information about other events across the country see Charley's Fund Website.
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