On May 4, thousands of bicyclists will take to the streets of New York City for the annual Five Boro Bike Tour, a 40-mile ride through the city's five boroughs. While standard entry often sells out early, many participants choose to ride in support of charities, including Team Fox. In preparation for this year's ride, we caught up with Team Fox member Marci Frankenthaler who is helping to lead Team Radical Riders!
Team Members and Ages: Marci (45), Michael (46) and Jordan Frankenthaler (17); Jared Fischer (17); Barak Stockler (17)
Hometown: Scarsdale, NY
Connection to Parkinson’s disease: Marci’s mother, Phyllis Blank, lived with PD for more than 20 years before passing away in August 2013 at age 67.
Tell us about your inspiration to fundraise with Team Fox!
We want to raise money to help find a cure for Parkinson's so that no person or family has to suffer the way that we have following the loss of my mother.
Tell us about your team. What was the inspiration behind your name, Radical Riders?
When Jordan, Jared and Barak were young, our families spent summer vacations in Cape Cod. The boys and my husband, Michael, would ride the Cape Cod rail trail every day and even did some "radical" off-roading. They called themselves the Radical Riders. Years later, we're now riding again-- this time to put our riding skills to use for a great cause!
Tell us what it means to have your family raising funds and awareness together.
It means so much, primarily because my mom was such a charitable person. When she was physically able, and even when she wasn't, she always volunteered her time- whether it was to visit a sick friend, to fundraise or to bake one of her delicious cakes. She would be proud of all of us for raising money in her memory.
What are you most looking forward to about participating in the 5 Boro Bike Tour?
We all love New York City and look forward to experiencing the city from a completely different perspective. Jordan, Jared and Barak have a passion for cycling, and seeing their excitement and enthusiasm around the ride has been inspiring! We are also excited to represent Team Fox amoung thousands of other riders!
You've already done a great job fundraising! Any tips for a fellow new member?
Get the word out there! Let your friends and family know what you are doing and why you are doing it. Social media is key! And don't be shy. When my mom passed away, so many people reached out and wanted to help. Donating to The Michael J. Fox Foundation is the best way to help!
TF: Anything else you'd like to share?
My mom was a beautiful woman, both inside and out. She fought daily to maintain the dignity that Parkinson's tried to take from her. She never let it. She was a role model to all those living with Parkinson's and instilled in me the mindset to do the best you can, one day at a time, and to never give up!
Interested in joining Team Fox for the Five Boro Bike Tour? Participants will receive free entry, a light breakfast and a boxed lunch, an early starting position ahead of the general riders and a personalized fundraising page. Spots are limited, REGISTER TODAY!
