After Losing His Mom to Parkinson’s, This Wisconsin Man Is Pedaling for a Cure

When tragedy strikes, some people crumble—others find a way to turn pain into purpose. Meet the Wisconsin man channeling grief into action, one Peloton ride at a time.

A Son’s Promise

After watching his mother battle Parkinson’s disease for years, Wisconsin resident Mark Thompson made a vow: he would fight back against the illness that took her life. But instead of traditional fundraising, he’s taking an unconventional approach—logging hundreds of miles on his Peloton bike to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s research.

• The Inspiration: His late mother’s 12-year struggle with Parkinson’s
• The Goal: Raise $50,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation
• The Method: Completing 500 Peloton rides in 6 months

Why Peloton?

For Thompson, cycling became therapeutic during his mother’s decline. "When she could barely walk, I realized how precious movement is," he explains. "Every revolution of those pedals honors her fight." His #RideForParkinsons campaign has since gone viral, with fellow riders joining virtually worldwide.

Progress So Far

1. 216 rides completed (43% of goal)
2. $28,500 raised through community donations
3. 12 corporate sponsors onboarded

The Science Behind the Mission

Research shows aerobic exercise like cycling may:

• Slow Parkinson’s progression by up to 35% (Journal of Parkinson’s Disease)
• Boost dopamine receptor sensitivity
• Improve motor function and balance

How You Can Help

Thompson’s initiative proves anyone can turn personal loss into collective gain. Whether donating, sharing his story, or joining a virtual ride, public participation is fueling real progress against this neurodegenerative disease.

What Do You Think?

• Should more people use fitness challenges for disease fundraising?
• Is Peloton culture helping or hindering health activism?
• Would you participate in a 500-ride challenge?
• Are "awareness campaigns" effective or just feel-good gestures?
• Should corporations match donations for viral health campaigns?

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