Pennsylvania Dad Rides Coast-to-Coast for Ronald McDonald House’s 50th Anniversary
A Pennsylvania father is biking across the country to raise $5 million and spread awareness for Ronald McDonald House Charities, which supported his family during their most challenging times.
Jeff Bekos is on a heartfelt mission, pedaling 4,600 miles from coast to coast. He began his journey in California on July 29 and has made stops at nearly two dozen Ronald McDonald House Charities locations along the way, including those in Chicago and Milwaukee.
On Friday, Bekos arrived at the charity’s Pittsburgh house after 65 days of cycling. During his visit, he took a tour of the facility, which provides a place for families to stay while their children receive medical treatment.
“Come down to the Pittsburgh house to learn more about what the charity does for families. They’re always looking for volunteers,” Bekos encouraged.
Bekos founded One Dad’s Mission in honor of his family’s own difficult journey, which began 11 years ago. His then-13-year-old daughter, Hailey, suddenly stopped talking one morning at breakfast. This marked the beginning of a terrifying ordeal—Hailey suffered seizures, spent four months in a coma, and was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease, leading to extensive treatments at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
During this time, the Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia became a lifeline for the Bekos family, providing them with a home-away-from-home. “We called room 37 our home for 254 nights,” Bekos shared.
Now, ten years after leaving the Philadelphia house, Bekos will complete his coast-to-coast ride there on October 14, in honor of the charity’s 50th anniversary. “They saved our lives during the worst time in our lives,” he said, explaining why he wanted to give back in such a meaningful way.
Throughout his journey, Bekos is accompanied by his wife Elizabeth, who he affectionately calls his “chief hydration officer” and a key partner in the ride.
With every mile, Bekos raises awareness about the invaluable support Ronald McDonald House provides to families facing some of their hardest days.
“I would absolutely do it again. I’m ready to go. I don’t know what I’ll do on October 15,” he joked.
To follow Jeff’s journey and see what’s next, visit his Facebook and Instagram pages. You can also support One Dad’s Mission by donating here.
