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

Christina Raia was the oldest in her family. When her dad, Tony, was diagnosed, a lot fell on her shoulders. She had four younger brothers. Her mom, Rosa, cared for her husband 24/7. When Tony went on a vent, the family united to provide him care.

Christina got involved with Ride for Life several years ago when we began the Long Island route. She was a good student and immediately started her own school activism. Now in college, she remains deeply involved.

Sadly, this weekend her father passed away. The entire Ride family extends to the Raia family our deepest condolences. We know her dad was so proud of Christina. His only time out of the house in recent years was to witness his daughter’s high school graduation. As Christina continues to make a mark in this world and in particular remains a strong ALS advocate, her dad will continue to look down and smile.

May the Raia’s find peace and consolation in these difficult days.