"The biggest impact GYGIG has is awareness. You meet people along the route and in the local communities and you tell them all about Crohn's disease. Many people have no idea what CD is. This ride helps to change a lot of that."
-Gary

For Gary Beckman, a 25-year old education graduate student near Orlando, Fl., it was a no-brainer. He had grown up watching and helping his father participate in runs, walks, and bike rides his whole life. It was just a matter of finding the right cause to throw all of his energy behind. And he's found it – Get Your Guts in Gear.

Gary first participated in Get Your Guts in Gear in 2005, 6 years after he was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. And while his symptoms have prevented him from riding, he's actively involved as a member of the crew. As a crew member, Gary is there behind the scenes to make sure the ride goes smoothly and the riders get everything they need.

Gary isn't the only person in his family that has gotten involved with GYGIG. It's turned it into a family affair, with Gary's father and cousin riding and his mother joining him on the crew. They are also helping him raise money and awareness for CD. This is particularly true for his father, who teaches cardio kick-boxing and rides a stationary bike in place for up to 4 hours in the hot Florida sun to raise money for GYGIG and CD.

While Gary has only been on the GYGIG tour since 2005, he's gained a lot of valuable experience. Most importantly, he says that the friendships and connections he's made are carried throughout the year. From learning to be open and honest about CD, to tips on living with it, the GYGIG crew members, riders, and supporters are all there to help each other.

Gary suggests that anyone interested in GYGIG, and talking with other CD patients like themselves, should reach out and ask questions. Whether it's at a doctor's office, the GYGIG message board, or any other forum, each question can help you become more comfortable with CD.

As for the future, Gary has decided that he'll soon be ready to join the riders on GYGIG. And while he'll miss working on the crew, he said he's excited to get on his bike and ride for Crohn's disease. He and his family are also discussing joining other future rides around the country, like the ride in Texas and Seattle.

Click here to donate to GYGIG now.