Bike the US for MS visits NCCH Resident

July 11, 2022

Author: Angela Sedivy

Mary Namy, a successful businesswoman, supportive mother, and good neighbor had her life journey re-routed when mild symptoms affiliated with her Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis progressed to severe numbness in her limbs and vision impairment.

Recognizing the impact of her diagnosis, Mary began searching on her own for housing options that would allow her to live independently even as her symptoms progressed. “I did not want my only option to be an assisted living facility,” stated Mary. “I called various organizations weekly without success; finally, Maximum Accessible Housing Organization (MAHO) suggested that I contact North Coast Community Homes.

Mary finally found a partner with North Coast Community Homes that would help her with a home environment allowing her to live with maximum independence in a neighborhood she could call home. Since 2015, Mary and her housemates have been in a beautiful ranch house in Euclid that NCCH renovated to suit their individual needs.

Enter Bike the US for MS. Since 2007, a community of inspired individuals from all backgrounds, ages, and cycling abilities have come together to raise awareness in communities across America to support research and find a cure for MS.

In June, nearly twenty Bike the US for MS volunteers stopped at Mary’s house. This group was on day 19 of a 69-day journey from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington, a coast-to-coast trip covering 4,295 miles.

Part of the cycling experience includes spending rest days off the bike and completing service projects for individuals living with MS. This was the fourth-year volunteers have selected to visit Mary and her roommates. The volunteers helped with lawn maintenance, washed windows, and completed other minor exterior repairs.

Jon rides to make a positive impact on the lives of those living with MS. Jon works as a fisheries research biologist in Seattle. He finds the journey and opportunity to connect with the other riders inspiring, “but it’s the privilege of meeting many community members and local families that make it worthwhile.”

Luke is a legal research and writing professor from California. He offered, “I did this ride, the same route, five years ago, and it was one of the happiest, most meaningful experiences of my grown-up life.”

Route Leader, Mason, was looking for summer opportunities before his senior year of college when a friend suggested joining Bike the US for MS. Mason was drawn to being able to lead a team of cyclists across the country to raise money and spread awareness about MS.

At the core of the North Coast Community Homes is providing a safe, stable, and supportive home environment for individuals living with disabilities. Those taking on the challenge of Bike the US for MS participate in supporting research and promote independence for those living with the disease right now.

Creating independence, Opportunity & Community. A great way to spend an early summer day in June!