Navy veteran Josh Sharpe, who lost the use of his legs in a car accident in 1994, will use a handcycle to travel the 180 miles from Houston to Austin, Texas, to raise awareness for his cause. Another 14 injured veterans will join, too, in the hopes of more public attention.
But it’s not a military cause, or one dealing with injured veterans or their struggles.
Rather, it’s an annual fundraising ride for multiple sclerosis research, an illness to which the veteran riders have only tangential connections.
“As injured veterans, we can identify with people struggling with this terrible disease,” Sharpe said.
“But it’s also about partnerships and being part of the larger community. Our partners come out to the Marine Corps Marathon and our other events. So when they called and asked if we could come ride (at the Texas event), it’s great to be part of that.”
The BP MS 150 — taking place April 18 and 19 — will attract more than 13,000 riders and is expected to raise about $21 million for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
But for the veterans involved, the ride doubles as another chance to bridge the civilian-military divide, giving them a chance to interact with individuals who may never have met an injured veteran or even someone who served in the military.
“If you see an injured vet in the grocery store, it’s pretty awkward to go up and learn about their story and challenges,” Sharpe said.
“But at events like this, you’re already more comfortable. We’re already all riding together, so we have something in common. Somebody can see my handcycle and ask about my experiences.”
Teri Consoldane, who handles veterans outreach efforts for BP, said inviting Sharpe and other members of America’s Fund (part of Semper Fi Fund) was a “natural fit” for the event as organizers looked for ways to increase attention on the fundraiser.
“They are stars,” she said of the veterans. “They want to lead by example. These are individuals who have faced plenty of adversity on their own, but instead of taking a victory lap, they’re coming out to help others.”
Sharpe, a 40-year-old world-class handcyclist, takes part in a number of similar training events throughout the year.
But he added the Texas ride to his schedule — despite the potentially grueling distance — because of the chance to build relationships with groups he doesn’t always get a chance to interact with.
“Our plan is to share as much as we can with everyone we come across,” he said. “And I know I’ll have a few other handcyclists that I can draft off of.”
For more information on the event, visit the BP MS 150 ride web site.
