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Businesspeople are often described using sports metaphors, with stories peppered with words and phrases like “dedication,” “teamwork,” and “beating the competition.” But sometimes, such people are most inspiring when they shift the focus away from their own lives and businesses and challenge themselves in the name of helping others.
One example that has caught the attention of many in the retail and CPG world is Jeff Bekos, a self-described “Dad on a Mission.” On July 29, Bekos embarked on a 4,600-mile cross-country bike ride to raise awareness and funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), an organization that provided his family with a lifeline during their darkest days and continues to do the same for other families around the country.
The day he started his ride Bekos went on LinkedIn to express his gratitude to the sponsors who signed up to support his effort, including The Emerson Group, Kroger Health, Giant Eagle Inc., Ultima Health Products, Care Pharmacies Inc., 21st Century HealthCare Inc., Alete Active Nutrition, DisposeRx Inc. and the NACDS Foundation.
Many supporters expressed their enthusiasm for Bekos’ mission.
“The Emerson Group has been a long-time proud supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities,” the company wrote on its own LinkedIn page. “When @Jeff Bekos came to us with his incredible and ambitious plans to raise awareness and contributions for RMHC, we didn’t hesitate in supporting him.”
Bekos’ motivation to undertake the journey stems from his own personal experience and that of his family. When she was just 13, Bekos’ daughter, Hailey, was diagnosed with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, a rare and life-threatening autoimmune disease. The disease left Hailey unable to speak, breathe, or function normally. She fell into a coma for four months, and the Bekos family faced the possibility of losing their beloved daughter.
The Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia became a refuge for the family during this traumatic time. For 254 days, they called Room 37 their home, finding comfort and support in a place where they could be close to Hailey while she received critical care. "It was a horrible time in our lives, but the Ronald McDonald House was there for us when we needed it most," Bekos recalled during a recent television interview.
The experience left an indelible mark on Bekos, inspiring him to give back to the organization that had provided his family with so much. In honor of RMHC's 50th anniversary, Bekos decided to undertake the monumental challenge of cycling from the Ronald McDonald House in Orange County, Calif., to the one in Philadelphia. Along the way, he plans to stop at 26 RMHC locations, sharing stories of hope and resilience from families who have also found solace in these special homes.
Bekos says his journey is not just about raising money; it's about raising awareness of the vital role that RMHC plays in supporting families with sick children. The organization's mission extends beyond providing housing; it also helps underserved communities access healthcare, making a significant impact on countless lives worldwide. Bekos hopes his journey will inspire others to support RMHC's mission, whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply spreading the word.
The physical demands of the bike ride are immense. Bekos plans to cycle 65 miles a day, six days a week, with only one day of rest each week. Despite the challenges, he remains undeterred, viewing this endeavor as one of the most challenging times of his life—but second to the struggle of keeping Hailey alive. His goal is to raise $5 million, a target he believes is achievable with the support of generous donors.
Throughout the journey, Bekos will be sharing updates and stories on his website, onedadsmission.org, and on social media. He encourages people to follow his progress and contribute to the cause, emphasizing that every dollar makes a difference. As of now, Bekos has already raised $500,000, a testament to the power of community and the impact of RMHC's work.
The trip will conclude in Philadelphia on October 14th, just in time for RMHC's 50th anniversary celebration. Bekos's ride is more than a fundraising effort; it's a tribute to the strength and resilience of families who face unimaginable challenges. Through his journey, Bekos hopes to shine a light on the invaluable support RMHC provides and inspire others to join him in making a difference.
As Bekos pedals across America, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of countless families. His story is a reminder of the impact one person can have when driven by gratitude and a desire to give back. His journey is not just a testament to his endurance but a celebration of the community that surrounds and supports families in need. It's about more than just the miles — it's about the lives touched along the way.
