Ben Zvan

MS 150: Duluth to White Bear Lake - Riding for Progress, Twice

Another year, another MS 150. Yes, I'm back on the bike, ready to tackle those miles for a cause that's become increasingly important to me.

Initially, this ride was just an event; that’s changed. Over the years, I've met a few people living with this unpredictable, frustrating disease, and it's changed the way I see this event. It's no longer just about the miles; it's about the people behind them. Every mile I ride and every dollar raised helps push us toward a world without MS.

I also like a good challenge. Every year, before the official ride even starts, I take the scenic route—biking 150 miles from my home in Minneapolis up to Duluth on Thursday. The last few years, I’ve somehow convinced a couple of other people that this is a fun idea, and they’ve joined me. Then, after a rest day (where we regret all our life choices), we turn around and ride another 150 miles back down to White Bear Lake with the whole MS150 crew.

It’s a big commitment, but if I can put my love of biking to work for a good cause, I’m in. Now, I'm not going to lie, incentives help: if I hit $1,000 in donations, I get ice cream twice—one stop per day on the way back. And, perhaps more importantly, I earn a Priority Portapotty Pass (which is exactly as prestigious as it sounds).

MS is a tough disease, and no one should have to face it alone. If you’re able to chip in, I’d love your support. Every donation goes to MS research and support programs that make a real difference for people living with this disease. My past donors helped fund research that found people who have contracted Epstein-Barr virus are 32 times more likely to contract MS.

Join me—let’s make this ride count.