Moving to Keep Eli Moving
Eight years ago, a now 17 year old, named Eli was diagnosed with FOP (fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva). According to the IFOPA, FOP is an ultra-rare and severe genetic condition. It causes the body's soft tissues—such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments—to slowly turn into bone when injured or inflamed. This extra bone forms a "second skeleton" that locks joints and stops movement.
Eli’s father called his best friend, Kelly, to share the news. Since that day, Kelly has dedicated much of his life to fundraising and spreading awareness for FOP. Using his love of endurance sport has been his main platform. In one week, Kelly will be hitting the course called The Badger 100 Mile. He will have 36 hours to complete 100 miles on foot. A goal of raising $10,000 is what Kelly set. And he is nearly there.
Treatment does not yet exist. That is why every dollar raised is extremely important.
Support and sponsorship for Eli, Kelly, and the whole FOP community comes in many forms. I have pledged to donate $1 for every mile Kelly runs between January 1-July 31. Another friend has also made the same pledge. Feeling inspired to make any financial contribution, hit the button below.
Check out some of the various organizations and podcasts that have also supported this endeavor:
Zimbrick Chevrolet (Instagram)
MADabolic Madison I The Strength Gym (FaceBook)
Survive and Thrive 8791 the Podcast (YouTube)
Average Age Groupers podcast (Spotify)
This afternoon I was lucky to have an impromptu lunch with Kelly and his son. Because we live nearly 1,200 miles apart from one-another, I don’t get to see him nearly as often as I’d like. But watching his life’s journey from afar brings me great joy.
To help support Eli, Kelly, and the FOP community, click the link below.
