Dear family and friends,

These are certainly strange times. I hope you and yours are all healthy, safe, and doing well.

I am writing to ask for your support of my second Bike-4-Chai ride to raise money for Camp Simcha, which will take place on August 13 (yes, we’re getting close to game time!).

While parts of the world have shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chai Lifeline has been busier than ever offering continued care and support to its vulnerable families. The children and families that rely on Chai Lifeline’s services need our support now more than ever before. Camp Simcha, which is part of Chai Lifeline, provides support and assistance for children and families dealing with serious illness and offers them a reprieve from the pain and fear of their everyday realities.

Like last year, I will be riding as part of Team Abe — in honor of my beloved father Abe Elias of blessed memory z”l, who passed away on Monday, September 24, 2018. It feels right to honor my father’s memory in this way.

My dad would be excited to support Camp Simcha’s mission of restoring the spirits of sick children and reminding them of the joy and fun that life offers – even as they move through dark and challenging moments. This personifies the approach my dad took in in dealing with his own health challenges.

My dad also loved to ride his bike. His favorite rides were on Fridays when he would ride from Lawrence to the Long Beach boardwalk and back.

And my dad was extremely charitable. He was committed to helping those in need, with a focus on giving tzedaka to charities in the Jewish community. We know that he would support this cause, and we like to think that he’ll be cheering us on throughout our ride.

Please support this very worthy cause by making a tax-deductible donation. Any amount would be great.

Thanks for your support!

Sincerely,

Eli + Team Abe