
Greetings to my loyal Trek Across Maine supporters and Happy Spring! No surprise that this year's Trek -- my 16th -- had to be cancelled to protect us all in this time of CoVid 19 crisis. But, Trek Across Maine will celebrate its 36th anniversary in 2020 with a virtual event. As the largest fundraising event of its kind in the nation for the American Lung Association, the Trek has raised more than $29 million in the past 35 years. This year a portion of the funds raised by the Trek Across Maine are supporting COVID-19 research. It was announced that the American Lung Association is launching a $25M (that's million $$!) initiative to end COVID-19 and defend against future respiratory virus pandemics. While I am disappointed, I recognize the wisdom of making this a virtual event, and, am proud that you and I can participate in ALA's commitment to tackling this virus. They are offering us riders and you wonderful donors to do this in a socially responsible and distant way: riding the miles on our own between now and June 30th. I am committed to riding the 180 miles of the Trek by the end of the Father's Day weekend -- I've already logged 90 miles in the last six weeks. I figure another 4-5 rides, over the next five weeks will do it!
I hope you will join me once again in supporting the American Lung Association and their efforts to find comprehensive testing, effective medications for those with the virus, and vaccines to protect us all. Thank you in advance for your donation. On-line credit card donations are very easy and secure, but you are also more than welcome to send a check with my name and Trekker Number 27 to the American Lung Association of Maine, 122 State Street, Augusta, ME 04330.
Please stay safe by wearing a mask, washing your hands, and exercising social distancing!
With deepest thanks,
Judith