Ride for Life Founder Returns to Miller Place

Miller Place School District (MPSD) recently held a special assembly at North Country Road Middle School to raise awareness of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Mr. Chris Pendergast, a Miller Place native and courageous fighter of ALS, returned to the district to speak with students about his journey over the last 25 years.

“Mr. Pendergast is a special member here in the Miller Place-Sound Beach community,” said Dr. Marianne Cartisano, Superintendent of Miller Place School District. “Each year our students look forward to hearing Chris’ story of perseverance and commitment to raise awareness for the ALS cause, something that directly aligns with the District’s initiative to encourage students to have a positive impact on the world.”

North Country Road Middle School’s students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grade listened attentively to Mr. Pendergast’s story about his advocacy efforts and how his devotion and perseverance inspired the Ride for Life organization, a charity that raises money and awareness for ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The presentation honed in on an important message for students to never give up and overcoming the odds. Students were also amazed by Mr. Pendergast’s ability to utilize advanced technology equipment to type using his eyes and speak through a computerized voice.

For the last 25 years, students and educators across Long Island and New York City have helped Mr. Pendergast raise more than $7 million for research and patient services. This year alone, the Miller Place School District has worked together to raise more than $5,500 for the organization through different initiatives including Kick Out ALS and Spirit Week.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website atwww.millerplace.k12.ny.us.