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Michael Patrick Beier, a NASDAQ trader for over 17 years spent the past nine years as Director of Equity Trading for
Credit Suisse/First Boston. Until a little over a year ago, this Long Island native enjoyed the simple pleasures of
exercise, travel, and quality time spent with his wife Theresa and children Carly (five), and Dustin (three).
Michael's life was changed forever on December 29, 2000 when, while seeking medical advice for a bothersome limp,
he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrigπs disease. Michael, who experiences
the debilitating effects of ALS a bit more each day, resolved to take an active role in the struggle to fund research
to cure his disease. In the summer of 2001, while receiving treatment at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, Michael
learned of an MDA Manhattan event to directly benefit ALS research and treatment taking place that fall.
He immediately became an active member of the fundraising effort, and was largely responsible for the inaugural
"Wings of Hope" gala's raising an unprecedented $650,000. For his tireless commitment and optimism that continues
to inspire everyone he touches, Michael was Wings of Hope's distinguished Spirit Award recipient.
Continuing his commitment, Michael was a committee member of the 5th Annual Ride for Life, a grassroots fundraising
ride from Montauk to New York City benefiting ALS research and treatment. He was the chair of "Wings Over Wall Street"
2002, the largest fundraiser for ALS research in the history of the MDA, and co-chair of "Wings Over Wall Street" 2003.
Below are Michael words, published in the Event Journal for Wings of Hope:
"It is with deep emotion and profound gratitude that I recognize the unwavering support of my family, friends, and
colleagues. I often feel more fortunate than others affected by this disease since I can presently walk, talk,
and breathe on my own. However, without a cure, I know that my limbs, speech, and breath will ultimately fail.
ALS is a disease that has made me angry at the ways it affects me, the thousands of others diagnosed,
and all of our loved ones. Since my diagnosis, I have vowed to do anything and everything possible to help
stop this disease so that my children will never be threatened."
On April 25, 2003, Michael left us to carry on in his spirit and to achieve the goal he set -- to eradicate ALS so no other
person or family has to suffer from this terrible disease. We humbly agree to carry out Michael's vow.
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