Ramsey Man To Cycle 270 Miles To Help Cure Lou Gehrig's Disease

RAMSEY, NJ — For years, Mat Mandel biked 270 miles for years to raise money for ALS research. Then he stopped in 2011.

He is back because of his cousin, Harold Levy, was diagnosed with ALS and quickly died of the disease.

"For me, it's about doing what I know I can do to have an impact, to move the needle," Mandel said. "Too many people how important that is. I forgot."

Mandel will bike in the annual Tri-State Trek, a charity event he founded. Participants ride from Boston College to Greenwich, Connecticut from June 21 to 23. Proceeds will benefit to the ALS Therapy Development Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The biotech nonprofit works to develop treatments for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

The event last year raised more than $800,000 for ALS research. Mendel wants to raise $5,000.

"I know I can raise some money through this event and make a difference. For 10 years, I witnessed up close what ALS does to people. Stripped of the simplest freedoms, I watched as friends fought, and still fight, for each breath and each movement," Mandel said. "I feel so fortunate to be cycling with old friends and raising money toward a cure for a horrific disease."

To donate to Mendel's fundraising page, click here.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com