|
Cardio Express Gyms To Recruit 100 Riders To Raise $100,000; VERNON, Conn. Cardio Express Fitness Centers owner and operator Peter Rusconi and hi
“It’s a lofty goal,” says Rusconi, a resident of Vernon, Conn. “But one we are determined to make. Scientific research is closing in on a cure, and it’s more important than ever that we continue to raise funds to keep research moving forward.” Rusconi owns five Cardio Express Fitness Centers throughout central Connecticut, including Manchester, Southington, Tolland, Vernon and Wethersfield. Rusconi, 47, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2004. Although he has few visible effects, multiple sclerosis presents a daily challenge. Since his diagnosis, Rusconi has worked extensively with the chapter to raise awareness and funds in the fight against multiple sclerosis. Since 2005 Rusconi has helped the chapter educate communities statewide on the effects of MS and the need to find a cure. He has also participated in the chapter’s annual walk event in 2005 and participated in A Taste of Hope, an annual wine-tasting event, since 2006. At its March 2 annual meeting, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter named Rusconi the 2007 Outstanding Special Events Volunteer of the Year. Rusconi captains Cardio Express, which was named the event’s top fundraising team in 2007. Last year Cardio Express raised more than $46,000. This year Cardio Express Fitness Centers has teamed up to serve as presenting sponsor for the ride. The team expects to raise $100,000. Rusconi will again, for a third year, serve as the official spokesperson for the event, helping the chapter to localize the fight, illustrate the many faces of MS, raise awareness and promote the bike ride.
There are more than 6,000 Connecticut residents, like Rusconi, diagnosed with MS. Multiple sclerosis is a potentially debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system. The cause is unknown, and, as a result, there currently is no cure. Funds raised through chapter events, such as the Bike MS: Mohegan Sun Ride, presented by Cardio Express, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to Connecticut residents diagnosed with MS. To register for Bike MS: Mohegan Sun Ride 2008, presented by Cardio Express, or to register for the Cardio Express Bike MS team, please visit www.myspace.com/cardioexpressbiketour or http://www.ctfightsms.org/.
NOTE TO MEDIA |
|
|
|||||
