By Chris Pendergast,
President and founder of Ride for Life
February 11, 2005

Sean Bowler, 29, did not know what the word quit meant. No one else in his family did either. Sean’s parents, Mike & Helene were both teachers and never failed to go the extra distance to help a kid. Mike coached Lacrosse for years. His own children also excelled in the sport. Sean was a natural. He played throughout high school and college. His teams were always top notch. The grades were always good, too. He graduated college and followed in his parents footsteps, becoming a teacher. He was a winner by any measure.

Sean was only 26 when ALS struck. With the dignity and determination that symbolized his younger life, he then battled the disease. His soul mate, Adena cared for him until his last stages when his parents retired and went to help.

I met Sean at one of the community events to help him pay for some of his care. He enthusiastically showed me his Dasher keystrokes program. Sean was a people person and loved to help others. In return, others loved to help him.

Sean’s family was not content with helping only him. His mom Helene was a regular on the weekends during the last two Rides. His younger brother, Michael, was also a teacher. He got his students involved and raised money. Next, he too became a weekend walker joining the patients as they traveled. Like the athletes they were on the field, they were a team huddled around Sean in real life. They fought on all fronts.

Sean got to move in to his dream house with his sweetheart, Adena, only a few months ago. He died peacefully after watching the Super Bowl with family and friends.

Even in death, Sean continued his fight against ALS. Based upon family wishes, family and friends were encouraged to donate to Ride For Life.

Thank you young Sean. At 29, you were more the man then many twice your age. And thank you team Bowler, for making it looks so easy for others to model. God Bless You All.