My name is Keith Ryan and I am a triathlete from Southern California eager to become a Blazeman Warrior. In fact, my entire family hopes to join forces with you in the war on ALS. Our family is quite unique in that all four of us are involved in multisport (we began doing triathlon in the mid 90s) and do tons of races and training together. We have all been both touched and motivated by your story, determination, and heart. I'll try and keep this as short as possible as to not bore you too much...but you have been a huge motivator for us the last few years.

The Ryan Family triathlon story begins with my mom, Dana, now 49. She got my dad to buy her a bike over ten years ago, saw a race on TV, said "I want to do that", and went out and got 3rd place in her age group. A marathon runner, my dad, John, 48, quickly followed suit and began his new multisport lifestyle, despite swimming only as fast as the 70+ women (he's made some improvements though). At the age of 12, I did a race at Bonelli Park and fell in love with the sport. My younger brother Kyle, now 18, did his first race at the age of 8 racing along side CAF's Rudy Garcia Tollson at the Iron Kids races down in San Diego. He is now a freshman at UC Davis and a member of the triathlon team. A competitive swimmer from age 8-college, it was not until I quit swimming at UC Irvine my sophomore year that I began to take triathlon more seriously. I'm a consistent age group winner and have won some local stuff and just got my best USAT national ranking, 20th in my age group. Now 22 and a recent graduate, I spend a lot of time training and racing, coaching at my alma mater Edison High School, and working at a teen center for underprivileged Hispanic youth. I plan on going to graduate school to get my MA in school counseling next Fall. That is essentially my family in a nutshell. Now comes the good stuff.

After my first two half Ironman distance races in 2005, I decided to make the jump and become an Ironman like my dad had done back at Ironman CA in 2000. We signed up for Ironman Arizona 2006 and began training. I was plagued with running related injuries and mentally fell apart and decided to pull out of the race in the fall of 2005. That is, until I saw the Kona coverage, and heard your story. I was so incredibly moved by your story and remember the first run I did after I saw it and had re-decided to do Ironman AZ. It was a short run, maybe 6 miles, but I remember how it felt and how I cried the majority of the time just thinking about you and your amazing efforts in Kona, how unfair life can be, and how I wanted to do something about it. I felt so uplifted every time I thought of you from then on out and I arrived at Ironman ready to go. A short race recap goes something like this: I swim a 50:07, my dad 1:11 - I ride 5:31, my dad 5:22- I melt on the run and my dad catches me at mile 23. I tell him to go ahead and he says that his ultimate goal was to finish along side me. My 13 minute miles transformed into a "blistering" 10 or 11 minute pace as I thought of you and remembered your struggles in Kona. Like you told Breen about his Ironman, the Ironman was the greatest experience of my life. As I heard the roar of the crowd, my dad and I locked and raised our hands as we ran down the chute and finished together in 11:14. Most people hear our story and think it's amazing, but they don't know the real reasons behind it.

Like you pushed Brian through his Ironman, and have motivated so many others in so many ways, you got me to that line. Without you, I would have most likely DNFed. I was cramping so badly and was so sick that I shouldn't have finished. But like Brian said, there was no chance of me not finishing with you there with me. And that afforded me the most amazing experience of my life to date.

Now I turn to the main reason behind these stories. My family is putting together a fundraiser- the OC Blazeman 140.6 in our local city of Huntington Beach. We are in the beginning stages of making our web page and spreading the word about the event, but we are extremely excited nonetheless. All four of us are going to participate- it will be the first Ironman distance for my mom and brother. In fact, we came up with this idea on one our family training rides during the holidays.

We have spoken with Dave Galli and heard about his swimming the channel to raise money for ALS, and were motivated to help in our own way. We have a large network as we known Bob Babbit well, Terry Davis of Tri California, Mike Collins of OC Multisports, many local tri-teams and bike shops...in essence, we're going to get the word out there.

The event is merely going to be a group of people out there to raise money for a cause and honor a true hero, that's you! It isn't an organized race, just an event to raise money and spread the word about ALS. It is also going to be a fundraiser for MS (an employee's spouse at my dad's restaurant was recently diagnosed), and CAF as well (we've been doing race for a reason and such), but our main focus and drive is the war on ALS.

So, I guess the next step is joining team Blazeman. How about a family of ALS warriors?! So, what do we do!? My dad and I are going to get the Blazeman team apparel soon as we have 70.3 in Oceanside March 31st and want to represent Team Blazeman and spread the word about our event and ALS as much as we can.

We also would like to know how to set up our own pay pal link on our page to track our donation information. We would greatly appreciate any direction you could give us.

We hope to hear from you soon. If you could pass this on to Brian Breen that would be awesome as maybe he'd be willing to help our cause or at least keep spreading the word.

Feel free to contact our family at:       triryans@hotmail.com

Just to let you know how driven we are for this cause- my dad came into my room about 60 minutes ago in his bike clothes (it's raining right now) and said, "Go mail Blaze, I'm gonna go watch him"! -- I've been listening to the 06 Kona coverage we have on Tivo listening to the sound of the trainer humming the entire time I've been writing this.

God bless and I hope to hear from you,
Keith Ryan
Huntington Beach, CA
Edison High School Swimming Head Coach

Sunday, February 11th, 2007

I am an avid cyclist--my brother lost battle with als 3 years ago--want to help with raising monies in cycling events.

Murphy Godek,
Rhode Island

Saturday, February 10th, 2007

I forgot to mention how moved I was watching the NBC coverage in 2005. My Mother-in-law raced on that day with you. She said, she saw you out on the bike and you gave her (as you've given so many),the strength to keep pushing.

When we (my husband and I) watched in 2006 I must have wept for 2 hours after. Your story is remarkably touching. As a mother myself, I feel heartache for your mom and dad. At the same time, I can't imagine the enormous amount of pride they must feel. I don't even know you and I'm so proud of you. Keep up the great work! The world needs more people like you.

With warmest regards
Jennifer
Sea Bluff, Connecticut

Saturday, February 10th, 2007

I am in awe of all that you have accomplished in your lifetime. You truely are a HERO. Not only in sport but in everyday life. What a gift you are to the world.

I know from my own experience as an IM finisher, that it's tough getting through training and racing with a healthy body. I just can't imagine the mental fortitude you must posess. You are one determined warrior. What a great word to describe you! WARRIOR! I hope to meet you one day. Until then I will do all I can to get your name and your fight out there. I'm unable to spin today, Feb 10th. But I hope to host an event in your name at my gym. I will also do another IM in the future and you bet I'll be rolling across that finish for you and this !@#$%^&* disease that you are being bulldozed by.

You have helped me realize that my life is NOT a dress rehersal. I hope to pass your positive message on to my 3 daughters.

Be well Jon Blais and know that you are so meaningful to so many. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Fondly,
Jennifer
Sea Bluff, Connecticut

Saturday, February 3rd, 2007

My name is Patrick M. Conrey. I’m a firefighter from Clearwater, Florida. I learned about team Blazeman in a hotel room the day before the Las Vegas Marathon. I wanted to do something special when I finished my 5th Marathon, after seeing the NBC program the day before, I new I had found my special ending to a long day (the AKA “the log roll”). I had run a personal best of a 3:36, not a Boston time but getting close. I would like to know what I have to do, to become part of the team. I would love to be part of the team in Clearwater 2007 (70.3) or other events. I appreciate your time and consideration feel free to contact me via email or by cell phone (727) 798-0768. What ever it takes I am the MDA coordinator for my Fire Department. I know what this charity is all about and would love to do more in such a special way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :P

Patrick M. Conrey (AKA: Patio, Irishmarathon man)
Pat, Jana, & Sean Conrey

Thursday, February 1st, 2007

Dear Jon,

Thank you for your inspiration! Your story has touched me and all the students in the Health and Fitness classes at my school, as well as the triathletes in the club I am coordinating at the local YMCA. I have a question, though. I love the new logo you have, with the quote, "So others may live." It would look great on a black t-shirt! I have a co-worker whose brother-in-law is battling ALS, and a student whose father died last year of ALS. I would like permission to use your logo and likeness on t-shirts that I could put these two men's names on, and sell them to my fellow triathletes. You will receive every penny of profit that I make. I would love the opportunity to get the word out, and help in the fight, and we will all log roll across the finish line of every race that we do.

Please let me know your thoughts.

Sincerely,
David Eagle
Hilliard Darby High School

Sunday, January 28th, 2007

This is it, I'm in now what???????

My dad (70 years of age) me 35 years young, race in adventure races, road races, triathlons, bike races, about 10 a year. We have been to Oregon, Chicago,Kansas, we live in Missouri, Saint Louis. We want to race to cure!!!!!!!!!

You see I work in a world of life and death, I personally never know what my patients with cancer young or old are going thru, but I have watched many die, babies to old age and and and what do you say, but I must do something to help cure a disease that is not as widely noted as CANCER. I WANT to be a part!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You go Blazeman!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Sincerely with many log rolls to come

Amy and Roy of Missouri

I want to race every race for ALS, how do we do this!!!!!!!!!!???????????

Sunday, January 28th, 2007

Hi Jon,

I'm a personal trainer/tennis coach and newly diagnosed with MND. Your website has helped me to try and think positive but its all still so hard to take.

Tina
England

Saturday, January 27th, 2007

Blazeman,

Please checkout my website, www.perfectly-fit.com. Go to the links page, I added your link to the site, I hope this is okay with you! I am also a seekonk warrior, class of 95. shoot me an email or give me a call , I am usually there all the time.

Mike
Seekonk, Massachusetts

Friday, January 26th, 2007

I’m in. Now what?

Peter Pichotta,
La Crosse, WI

Friday, January 26th, 2007

I train and compete in Northern Indiana with a team of six other triathletes… We want to help… How do we join and help raise some money?

Zach Rininger

Friday, January 26th, 2007

Jon, Mike, and friends…..

I gotta get involved !!!

I met Jon in Kona this year and I want to dedicate work, dollars, and sports to Jon, and my Grandmother who died of ALS.

S. Zev Barnett
Centennial, CO

Thursday, January 25th, 2007

I don't know if this is the right or appropriate place to say this but I wanted to share my Blazeman experience.

'm new to the Blazeman, and my friends and I were inspired to put on a Spin-a-thon and we've been running ever since. I don't know how to say all that I want but I feel compelled to share. We're all middle school teachers and two of us coach HS sports. I knew I could "make" my girls softball team spin and I held my softball team parent meeting last night with the idea I'd present it(John's DVD) and see where it went. It was completely quiet for the entire 15 minutes and 38 seconds except for sniffles and people getting up to get kleenex. (I cried too)I explained what we were going to do(one of my friends is doing the entire 16.5 hours) and told the kids and parents to think about what they saw and I'd check with them today to see where they were at with regards to participation.

I got to practice not knowing what to expect and here's where we're at: On their own several girls went to the ASB class today to present the spin and see if ASB would get involved. They said yes, they'd promote, raise funds and spin.

My JV's and Varsity teams decided to challenge each other to see who could raise the most in pledges. Several parents said they want to participate. One parent writes for a local paper and wants to do a story. Prior to this I presented the DVD to some of my fellow teachers at lunch and asked for help. 2 hours later I find out that two of them organized the entire 6 grade class(330 kids 10 teachers) into doing a jog-a-thon on the 9th to raise money for ALS and they're going to show the DVD to all 6 grade classes and dedicate their science period for the next few weeks to research ALS. All this has happened in the last 24 hours. One story, one amazing individual, one wonderful opportunity and a school of Blazemen was born. May God Bless each and every one of you and thank you John for having the courage to do what others can't and helping a person like me realize that it's not the body, but the spirit. Sorry for the long post.

Dave Mac Donald

Wednesday, January 24th, 2007

My father was diagnosed with ALS and ultimately passed away in 2001, trapped in depression I ran a marathon with a friend in 2004. I just completed my third marathon in November 2006, the ING NYC Marathon. I watched the 2006 Kona Ironman on TV last year and saw you, your story and Brian who swam, biked and ran with inspiration because of you and in your honor. I really appreciate what you do, what you stand for and the fight you face, please know that you touch everyone who learns about you and your story and your inspiration will forever live in every one of us.

Fight the fight my friend! I will do everything I can to honor you and others throughtout my life.

Kevin
North Carolina

Wednesday, January 24th, 2007

Hey Blazeman!

I can't really recall how I happened upon your website. I am 48 and in my 8th triathlon season. I've finally built up to the point where I am doing my first Ironman (Wisconsin; 9/9/2007!). Okay, actually I wanted to do an IM before I turn 50, and figure this is just about my last shot!

My father-in-law has been battling ALS for 10+ years. He's holding his own. I am going to order Blazeman "War on ALS" gear and wear it in all of my long training activities and all of my races. And believe me- I am going to roll across every single finish line- podium finish in jeopardy or not!!!

You've inspired me. I am going to race my IM for Team Blazeman and my father-in-law. Do you have any official program to help collect funds, etc., or should I use the (Janus?) IM-sponsored fundraising site?

Anyway, just wanted to drop and note- wish you the best- and let you know you've recruited another warrior!!!

Don Weirens

Wednesday, January 24th, 2007

Jon,

I am an avid triathlete and last Friday I was flying home from a business trip up north when I was seated next to a very nice girl from Wilmington. We struck up a conversation and she said she was staying in Sarasota (where I'm from) and she was going to visit a dear friend who's suffering from ALS in Ft. Myers. She said her friend is a great triathlete and I asked if it was "John Blais"? Her name was Charlam Durante and she couldn't believe that I heard of you! What she didn't know is that hundreds of thousands if not millions know about you and your war on ALS.

Your a major inspiration and you definitely know how to fight the fight. You are doing all that you can do and you are touching people's lives everyday -- this is what will be with you forever and that's pretty cool! Keep doing what you do and when you can't anymore know that others will because of you.

From a fellow triathlete,
Chris Juall
Sarasota, Fl

Wednesday, January 24th, 2007

To Whom It May Concern:

I'll be running the Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon on June 24th, and would love to join Team Blaze in an effort to raise money to find a cure for ALS. My uncle, Jesse Plumley, passed away 9 years ago due to ALS. I read the article on Jon on active.com, and figured now was my chance to help. Please let me know what efforts you have made and how I can contribute to finding a cure.

If Jon is reading this, you are my hero! I watched your Ironman video and want to thank you for your courage. I look forward to helping.

Regards,
John Plumley
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Monday, January 22nd, 2007

Hello Jon,

My name is Jeff Wright and you don’t know me, but after watching your story on the Ironman the last couple of years I feel that know you.

The last few years I cheered on my wife while she competed in triathlons and I thought to my self I should compete in 1. After watching your story in 05 I thought "If this man who was given 5 years or less to live can finish the Ironman Hawaii, than hell I can do this". So in late September of 06 I finished my first Triathlon in Lake Geneva.

My wife and I would love to join your Team and help wage War against ALS!!! If you could or have someone send us some information I would love to support your efforts here in Chicago.

Thank You for taking the time to read this,
Your Fan Jeff Wright
Rosemont, Illinois

P.S. Jon thank you for being an inspiration to me and to all those who are fighting ALS.

Friday, January 19th, 2007

I saw the IM World Championship program, and was moved to the point of tears. I want to be a part, and do what I can to raise awareness.

Todd Verkest
Phoenix, Arizona

Friday, January 19th, 2007

Hello,

My stepmother was just diagnosed on 1/17/07. I am interested in getting involved with ALS awareness. I have been doing triathlons for the last 4 years. How do I become involved??

Sincerely,
Barry Conrad

Friday, January 19th, 2007

Good Morning from Alabama,

In 1990 my grandfather died from ALS. My grandfather was absolutely my best friend. He was the only one that ever really believed that I would make it. I am now an Ordained United Methodist Pastor in Alexander City, Alabama. Through a dare a few years ago, I started competing in Triathlon. I am a 250 pound Clydesdale. I have completed a half Ironman, Gulf Coast and ran a marathon at St. Jude’s (Dec. 2006) for a 5 year old friend who is battling cancer. This year my brother and I will be competing in Ironman Louisville. We will be running in honor of Jon (The Blazeman) and in memory of my grandfather and all the other poet warriors.

I went on the Janus site to see about raising money for ALS research but Louisville is not listed. Tell me how my brother and I can become part of your team and let us know about Janus and the fund raising. Also what publicity we can get out there to make people aware of this dreadful disease.

Rev. Steve

Friday, January 19th, 2007

Mr. Blais,

I had the honor of meeting you at the Ironman 70.3 in Clearwater, FL. You are truly an inspiration. You embody what triathlon is all about: the human spirit fighting against the odds. I have followed your story since the 2005 Ironman Kona in which you were profiled. It would be an honor to join team Blazeman. I plan to compete in at least six events in Florida:

• The Madeira Beach Mad Dog Triathlon in May
• The Dunedin Beach Triathlon in June
• The Sand Key Triathlon in September
• The Ironman Florida in November
• The Times Turkey Trot in November
• The Ft. De Soto Off Road in December

I would be proud to raise awareness of ALS and the research being done to defeat it. If you have any questions for me, please call.

Thank you for your inspiration.

Sincerely,
Marc P. Vallin

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

Thanks for the inspiration and hope and love you have put out there... we're going to do our best for the Spinathon in Seattle on Feb. 10 at Triumph Multisport, a community of caring multisport athletes and friends.

Ed
Issaquah, WA

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

Hi my name is John Mckay,

I have watched the Ironman for years and was touched by the blazeman story. My friends have decided to run the oklahoma memorial marathon in April as a relay team. We are supposed to have a name and we thought of all of the silly names we could call ourselves then I decided that we should call attention to a cause. At that moment you flashed into my mind. We would love to have your blessing to call ourselves BLAZEMAN.COM or OKLAHOMA BLAZEMANS (or any name that you think appropriate), we would also wear the blazeman shirts and maybe do the roll at the finish line. Basically we want to draw attention to ALS and hope you will allow us to associate ourselveswith your cause. We know isnt a triathlon or even doing a marathon by ourselves. But we want o bring BLAZEMAN to Oklahoma. I hope all is well and thank you for your time reading my letter.

John McKay
Oklahoma

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

I am interested in joining team blazeman.

Sincerely,
Eric C. Piazza
New York, NY 10016

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

Hello,

I found your website today as a result of the article in Active.com.

I commend you on your fight. I lost my step-father to this disease 2 years ago, and he too was a warrior.

I am committed to help find a cure and would like more information about joining your team or supporting your fight.

I am not an endurance athlete. I run 5K and 10K races and signed up for my first individual duathlon this year.

How can I help?

Thanks,
Carisa Stangler

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

I’m interested in joining team blazeman.

What is involved?

Mary Miller

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

Dear Team Blazeman:

I aspire to join your team. I am an active triathlete and saw Jon's performance at Kona 2005. Remarkable and inspiring!

ALS has been a close part of Gayle's (that's my wife) family. Her grandmother (Kay Sanders) lived with ALS in Saugus, MA for almost 18 years. Dr. Brown in Boston treated her until she passed and continues to fight for a cure today.

Each year my wife's family hosts the Kay Sanders Memorial Golf Tournament in north Boston to provide funding to The Angel Fund.

I hope to run the Boston Marathon this year wearing a number given to The Angel Fund. Right now team Angel Fund is waiting for the quantity of numbers then they will distribute them. I hope to be one of the lucky ones!

Jon, you are an inspiration and I would like to stay close to Team Blazeman. I have a few tris on the calendar this summer and would be proud to sport the Blazeman colors.

Please add me to your distribution list(s)...and God Bless.

Brian D. Reh
Fishers, NY 14453

Wednesday, January 17th, 2007

Hi John (W.)-

My name is Emily Archibald, I am 26 years old and want to help get involved in the war against ALS. I am originally from Chatham, MA on Cape Cod and life has taken me to Raleigh, NC. I am a nurse in the cardiothoracic ICU at UNC Hospital. Ever since I was little I wanted to do an Ironman and that dream came true in 2004 at Ironman Florida. I have also since gone on to complete IM Coeur D'Alene in 2006, and am looking forward to completing IM Florida again this year.

Throughout my IM experiences I have been inspired by many different people, most recently by The Blazeman, and also by Scott Johnson (the first double lung transplant recipient to complete an IM- He was a patient in our unit when he received his lungs- However I was working in Boston at the time and have never got to meet him)

I want to organize my own spin-a-thon against ALS. I have pitched the idea to my gym (The Wellness Center at Meadowmont). I will be meeting with their director next Friday the 26th to get things organized. I know Feb 10th is approaching fast! But I am committed to the cause.

I am hoping to raise awareness about the disease, and am hoping to touch and inspire people- just like The Blazeman has done. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you!

Best Regards,
Emily Archibald

Tuesday, January 16th, 2007

I'm not new to ALS, but I am new to the fight for ALS. My close cousin, David Barker, has been battling ALS for over twelve years. I am a new team member on Blazeman, and I'm trying to do my part. I have raised a little money so far, and will continue to do so through the season, and thereafter. Check out my new web site, which is intended to put ALS awareness and fund-raising out there.

David Knight
www.CoonbottomTriClub.com

Monday, January 15th, 2007

Jon,

There have been few times in my life where I was moved by watching sports as I was when I saw you finish the Ironman. At the time I told myself that I had to do something to help your cause. Unfortunately I got wrapped up in doing my own Ironman and over a year slipped by. It has now been over a year and I realize "decision must be instant and commitment must be total"

My Gradfather died of ALS and like myself he was a lifelong athlete.

This year I am doing Ironman Louisville and will raise money for ALS TDF. Tomorrow I will look into trying to set up a Spin-a-thon on 2/10 ehere in Birmingham, Michigan. I have several other ideas and my three kids have agreed to support the fund raising activities.

You are truly a great inspiration!!!

Mike Demko
Birmingham, Michigan

Monday, January 15th, 2007

Hi Jon,

I have been checking out your website and wanted to email you. I watched IM Hawaii 2005 and you inspired me, by saying “face your fears and live your dreams”, during one of your interviews. I took that with me into my races in 2006 as my motto. The great thing was as I passed an aid station in Arizona I looked up and there you were. I interrupted your conversation to say thanks for your inspiration. At IM Arizona I qualified for Hawaii but due to an injury I was unable to race. I did attend the medical conference and felt honored to have been present for your talk to us all. I just wanted to say that you have inspired me and I feel privileged to have met you and listened to you speak. You are an amazing individual and I wish you all the best in your fight against ALS.

Christine Suter
Whistler, B.C. Canada

Wednesday, January 10th, 2007

Originally this e-mail was received on December 9th, 2006. It is repeated here because of a feature story on Ironmanlive.com.

(Click Here for Ryan's Story)

Hi gang,

I desperately want to join team blazeman, how do i go about it? I am a three time Ironman finisher and my father is dying from ALS, and i want to bring the fight to southwestern Ontario Canada, and all my friends and fellow athletes..

How can i become a member of the team?

i am going to Lake Placid to godwilling finish my fourth Ironman and get the honor of rolling for my dad.

Any help is appreciated.

thanks,
Ryan Van Praet

"You can quit, and they won't care, but you'll always know..."

* * * * * * *

Jon, Katrina & Mike,

After watching the 2007 Ironman championships (sorry I missed 2006 but will be buying the DVD) I was inspired to help for one main reason…

My friend and co-worker, Tom Newton is fighting ALS.

I am interested in helping to raise awareness and money any way I can. Any monies that I would raise I would like to be donated in the Tom’s name.

Since the airing of the 2007 championships I have been doing some research on line and I have made the decision and I will be committed to this as long as I am able.

I do have a couple of questions…

1. What do I do next?
2. Are there any other team members running in the Boston Half Marathon (Boston’s Run to Remember - http://www.bostonsruntoremember.org/boston/index.html) on Sunday May 27th?
3. When is the next Blazeman 5K in RI?

Once I hear back and get a little direction from you, I will be purchasing a couple of t-shirts to wear on training runs and workouts, and I will purchase my tri gear as needed.

A couple of things about me…

• I currently live in Connecticut but I work in Canton Mass. I am planning on moving to Mass as soon as possible – hopefully by June.
• I completed 1 marathon and many halfs as well as a bunch of shorter races.
• My goal is to start my multi sport career this year by first getting back to running and I would like to do it for a good cause (as well as my own health and fitness).

Tom’s bio will follow shortly.

I am looking forward to doing anything that I can do.

I have also copied Tom as I told him I would keep him in tune.

Mark Helisek
Canton, Massachusetts

* * * * * * *

Hi!

My name is John Fischer and I am a triathlete from Los Angeles. I have completed 1 Ironman (Arizona 2006) and am training for my second at Coeur D'Alene on June 24, 2007. For CDA, I am raising funds for Augie's Quest through the Janus Charity Challenge. I met Augie Nieto in 2002 when he spoke to an economics class I was taking at our mutual alma mater, Claremont McKenna College. Since then, he was diagnosed with ALS and has started Augie's Quest. From your web site, I know that you are familiar with Augie's Quest.

Watching the Ironman Kona telecast in December re-acquainted me with the Jon Blais story. As I was already signed up to fundraise for Augie's Quest, I was particularly moved by the focus on Jon and team Blazeman. Now I am glad to be helping.

For my campaign on behalf of Augie's Quest, I need more publicity. I am hoping that by reaching out to Team Blazeman I can somehow achieve this. Could I race as part of Team Blazeman? How can we use our shared fight against ALS in the best way? What are some other ways that you have used to get more attention to the War on ALS?

I look forward to hearing from you and working with you!

Sincerely,
John Fischer
Los Angeles, CA

Friday, January 5th, 2007

I was very moved while watching the 2006 Ironman at Kona. My cousin David has been battling ALS for 12 years. I sent a donation, purchased a shirt and have begun seeking out donations as I race this year. Here's my blog and I look forward to being part of the battle.

Peace,
DK

coon-bottom-tri-club.blogspot.com/

Detective David A. Knight
Tallahassee, Florida 32304

Thursday, January 4th, 2007

Greetings,

My father passed away on Long Island, New York from ALS on December 1st, 2005 at the age 88. For him, the disease progression was fast and furious. Since then, I have considered becoming more involved in the ALS community. Other than joining the Western PA/West Virginia Chapter of the ALS Association, I haven't done much. I read an article in the latest issue of USA Triathlon Life about a boy involved in fundraising for ALS through multisport. Consequently, I visited the Team Blazeman website. This year I will be competing as a middle-of-the-pack 50 year-old age grouper at the New York City 70.3 and the Timberman Half Ironman triathlons. My thirteen year-old daughter will be competing in several kids triathlons, as well as the USAT Youth Elite triathlon series. I just ordered my Team Blazeman tri shorts and top from Tri-Gear to wear during these events, and need to get her an outfit as well. Are there are any fundraising opportunities we could get involved in through multisport? If so, please send to me information.

Thanks.
Sincerely,
Tom Simmons
Indiana, PA

Tuesday, January 2nd, 2007

I'm planning my first Tri on June 30th of 2007 (Tinman, Tupper Lake, NY) It's a 70.3. I want to roll your story across the finish line that day.

How do I officially join?

Paul Leo Fahey

Thursday, December 28th, 2006

Dear Team Blaze,

I would like to race for team blaze this year at the Virginia Double Iron. I have many ideas for how I can raise money and awareness and I am excited about it. Can you send me some information about how I can join the cause.

I look forward to hearing from you.
Peelee

Tuesday, December 26th, 2006

Hello,

My sister, Sue has ALS too. She was diagnosed 11 years ago and collapsed 9 years ago and is on a ventilator now. She will tell you that she is the happiest person she knows. I am her caregiver now. We have a great time together. We are watching the Iron Man on a VCR tape that her friends in Hawaii sent to her. How amazing. We know first hand want John Blaze is going through and what he has ahead of him. Stay strong brother. Please feel free to contact us anytime. Sue's e-mail address is suelyonfox@hotmail.com. Sue can blink her eyes and silently move her lips to form letters...Sue' husband, son and I read her lips and this is how she communicates...but she is just as alive as I am and makes the very most out of what life she does have.

Last year at the annual ALS Walk here in Kansas City, Sue's way cool team was 116 strong. We managed to raise over 16,000$ in the few months prior to the ALS Walk. This was almost tripple what her team has raised in the past. Of our team members, we had virtual walkers in Hawaii and Sumatra.

Happy Trails,
Nancy Lyon

Saturday, December 23rd, 2006

I just finished watching the recorded Kona championship with my boyfriend. We hadn't had a chance to see it until now. I knew of Blazeman's story from last year, and was equally touched to see all the flames on the course, fighting for ALS.

I am a competitive triathlete, former Peace Corps volunteer, and current pharmaceutical sales representative for Pfizer. I would love to learn more about the team program. I have raced IM but am sticking to the half distance. I finished 9th in my category at World Championship 70.3 this year, and have several wins from the 2006 season in duathlon and top finishes in triathlon. I love the sport but it's not my life. I see the bigger picture. When I'm racing or training, I'm doing it with passion, but I would love to do what I do and help gain exposure for something more important, and bigger, than all of us.

Please tell me what the program entails, and how I can help. I currently have several sponsors whose logos are on my jersey, so I could not wear only the team jersey, but it'd be great to have the logo added to mine. I look forward to learning more about the team and how I can help.

I am truly inspired and my heart goes out to Blazeman for the incredible passion he has displayed and the ability to touch so many hearts out there-- hearts who may have not otherwise been awakened. Thank you for inspiring one more tonight!

Amy

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Dear John,

I heard your story at the 70.3 WC in Clearwater and I was touched. I will be competing in the Virginia Double Iron in October and would like to join your team. I don’t know how I am going to raise money and awareness but I have the drive necessary to do it. How do I go about joining your team?

Cheers!
Philip Lee Clark

Friday, December 22nd, 2006

Hello Jon-

I am contacting you because my husband and I want to help get the word out about your work and the fight against ALS. I am a marathoner and my husband is a triathlete and we live in Houston, TX. I have completed 7 marathons, including Boston and Chicago. My husband just completed his first Ironman in Florida November 4th. He’s ready to compete in his next IM race and has entered the lottery for Kona (although I know that odds are against him on that one). Other races he’s looking at for the future include Lake Placid, Coeur d’Alene, and a rematch in Florida. He wants to venture abroad as well, but it will all have to come in time ;)

I guess my point in getting into all of that is that we’re definitely continuing to compete not just in our home state but across the country and we want to be warriors in your fight.

Thanks for your time and I look forward to hearing from you!

Danielle Ryan

Tuesday, December 19th, 2006

I’m interested in racing for Team Blazeman in 2007. At age 56, I am a late arrival to multi-sport – but I love it. In 2006 I qualified for World Long Course Championships in France next July. I am also preparing for my first Ironman in Brazil in May 2007 with hopes of qualifying for Kona.

But what is more important, ALS claimed both my grandfather and my mother. Familial ALS is relatively rare – I should overcome those kinds of odds in the lottery! But such is life. I have not had genetic testing done – what’s the point. Knowing whether I may or may not have ALS does not change the fact that my mother’s battle taught me to live every day to the fullest.

I race because today I can. It is a way of celebrating the health I have today. I would like to make it a way to celebrate my mother’s life and the lives of those with ALS.

Thanks so much for all you do to raise awareness and support for the fight against ALS.

Karen O’Riordan
Marietta, Georgia

Monday, December 18th, 2006

Thanks for being so inspirational, I am grateful for what I have and I hope to compete in an Ironman one of these years.

Wilson
Aiea, Hawaii

Sunday, December 17th, 2006

please send me information about upcoming ironman competitions that raise money for ALS . I am interested in competing

Wendi Platt
Virgo, IL

Friday, December 15th, 2006

Jon,

I cried in 2005 as you crossed the finish line in Kona. Your whole story was VERY inspiring for me. I’m a 45 year old guy who in 2003 had both knees partially replaced (due to arthritis). I can’t run so I racewalk. I have no hope of every winning my age group. I wasn’t even sure I could finish a tri.

But I did on July 1. The swim was pretty ugly, I did well on the bike and most of the people I passed on the bike passed me on the run. But I completed the race. I actually did one more tri later in the summer.

Seeing your story this year on NBC again brought tears to my eyes. I want you to know that I will be doing the Blazeman roll at the finish in honor of you. I’ll try and get a picture of it to e-mail to you. PLEASE feel free to e-mail me back. This old guy can use all the encouragement he can get.

You are in my prayers. Thank you for being the inspiration you have been.

Steven Gerber

Thursday, December 14th, 2006

I am a full time tennis professional in the Bay Area. I teach 60 hours a week and love what I do. I watched your story on NBC at the Ironman, you are awesome, what you did. I have run 4 marathons to raise money for the local hospital where my daughter, Olivia was born in 1998, she was 12 weeks early and weighed only 2 pounds. She just turned a healthy 9 years old....

I would like to get involved in your cause, how can I help?

Thanks again, great effort in Hawaii!
Randy W Becker Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

Wednesday, December 13th, 2006

hey jako

its petra. i ran the honolulu marathon on the 10th december and couldn't have done without you in my thoughts when the going got tough!! also i wouldn't have been able to kick fab's hairy ass without your help

luv ya petra

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Jon,

Talk about an inspiration. I cried in 2005 when I saw the Ironman special on you and then when I saw Brian's feat this year, I knew I had to get in touch. Watching you and Brian in 2006 killed me.

I've always wanted to start a charity and help others. You talk about the Blaze Man and team...I want to start the BlazeMEN. A team of true champions, like you and Brian Breen. We won't make millions as athletes, but you bet your top dollar we'll wake up the masses.

I grew up in Lawrence, Ma, went to UMass Amherst, and now live in Newton, Ma. I really want to start the "Blazemen," a true organization of athletes, like Team Hoyt, who care to fight for a difference and raise awareness. Nothing in it for us.

Your cause will never be forgotten, it will live, in the spirit of those you inspire. I'd love to chat with you and your family on how I can help.

Thanks,
Shawn

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Blazeman,

Cool site! I am a triathlon coach and the co-founder of a web site: http://www.SoCalRunning.com

I saw the NBC coverage and was touched by your story so I posted an article on our site about you and your cause. I formerly worked for MDA and because of this, I worked with ALS patients. Your cause is close to my heart. And Gary, SoCalRunning.com's other co-founder lost his grandfather to ALS. We want to join your team and help in your fund-raising/awareness efforts. You can check out my article today at the web site above.

My prayers and thoughts are with you and I'll be sending in a check over the next few days. I also add a link to your page from our site today.

Thank you for inspiring me.

Train Focused,
Steve Mackel

* * * * * * *

I watched with great interest, as I am sure many people did, the 2005 and 2006 Hawaii Ironmans. I have been truly moved by Jon's fight against ALS and the fact that there is nothing new that can be offered to ALS patients now versus what was available to Lou Gehrig. I am a triathlete, but have only done Olympic distances. I have competed for 5 years, but am an mid-level age-grouper. I would like to buy the ALS "tri-gear" to wear in my next triathlon, which will be in the summer since I live and compete mostly in Colorado. I was moved by Ben B. that did the 2006 Ironman for Jon and ALS. What else I can do to support the cause?

Sincerely,
Lisa Decker

* * * * * * *

Thank you for all your efforts and dedication to educating us with your message to help find a cure for ALS. I learned about your mission last year, My thoughts and prayes are with you and your family. We look forward to offering our support anyway possible.

Kevin Reen
Swampscott, Massachusetts

Tuesday, December 12th, 2006

I watched NBC's recap of Kona this weekend like many, many other people and I was moved to tears by Jon's story and Ben Breen's race. I recently registered to compete in a half marathon in March (having completed my first sprint distance tri in October and trying to keep in shape for another one in May) and wondered whether Team Blazeman would allow me to run and fundraise in Jon's name for that race or whether you prefer that the focus of the Team be placed on triathlons.

Kindly,

Kim Magee

* * * * * * *

Hello,

I was truly inspired by watching Jon's 2005 Ironman Hawaii Finish. I completed my first triathlon in September in Bath, PA finishing 64th out of 125. I would definitely be interested in joining the blazeman army. I work at a hospital in Allentown, PA, and I train 5 to 6 days a week. My next triathlon is in Hawaii on May 20th 2007.

Thanks,
Erik Feeney

* * * * * * *

Hi Jon,

Also watched this weekend thanks to Jen who is a friend and colleague. You're amazing -- and an inspiration. While we haven't met, through Jen ALS has become very personal indeed. Blessed be in your war on ALS. I'll do my part! May the Spirit that lives within ease your pain and give you peace.

Pat

* * * * * * *

Blazeman,

Saw the Ironman this weekend and lost it a number of times. You are a total inspiration. I watched you last year and this year you accomplished something even greater! I have competed in a number of triathlons from Sprints to 70.3’s, but never the Ironman. I plan on doing one in 2008… I WILL roll across the finish line in your honor!

How do I join team Blaze?

God bless you and your family.

Tim Hammill
Truckee, CA

* * * * * * *

Met John and parents at 2006 IM, after watching you on TV in '05 it was amazing to see you and to speak with you on Alii Drive !! I rode with your ALS sticker on my bike and thought of you often during the ride Keep up the fight, you are an inspiration to many ! Matthew 5:14 NIV

Butch Wabby
Franklin, TN

Monday, December 11th, 2006

Jon and family

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. After watching the Kona broadcast last year I was moved to do a little something to help the cause but things in my own personal life got in the way, so the results were truly minimal in the grand scheme of things. Watching the NBC show this past Saturday has made me realize once again how very special Jon is and that I would like to do something now and in the future to both honor Jon and help ensure that his legacy is one that is never forgotten. Let me know what I can do, please.... May God be with you and watch over you always.

Mike Conway

* * * * * * *

I was watching the Ironman competion yesterday and your story just really amazed me and touched me. Seeing Brian Breen run the race for you this year was just awesome. He has a real drive to gain help in fighting ALS. What I found to be very moving was how you rolled yourself across the finish line last year, and how Brian rolled across as well this year. Your story has really driven me to want to spread awareness about ALS too. I am definately going to tell as many people as I can about your story and about ALS awareness. It made my mom cry and me cry... and I do not cry often. You are an inspiration to many young athletes and those who are suffering through ALS. May God bless you and your family always.

Julianne

* * * * * * *

Jon,

I just learned more about you and your mission this past weekend watching NBC. I will be attempting my first Ironman next August in Louisville, and to participate with Team Blazeman Warriors would be my honor.

Five of my fourteen marathons were done with the Leukemia Society's Team in Training program, so I used to this type of involvement. My grandmother battled ALS in the 60's, and my mother, her daughter, battles MS for 20 years. So diseases of the nervous system run in family. So far, my generation has been skipped (my brother, sister, and myself are 47 - 52).

I would like to join with you and use my Ironman experience to raise money and awareness.

Thank you,
Paul Vanderheiden

* * * * * * *

Dear Jon;

Words cannot begin to express how your accomplishment in the Ironman has inspired my life.

I watched you last year and Brian Breen this year. I was moved to tears because of the power of the human spirit unselfishly given for another human being and for a cause. You and he have brought a voice to a silent killer that for years has taken those who could make a difference in the world.

As a former Marine I sacrificed my life daily for my country, many of my brothers died for the cause of democracy.

It has been