Members of Phi Delta Theta fraternity on the campus of Arkansas State University are teaming up to hold a benefit this month to raise money for ALS research and assist a Jonesboro man who has battled the disease for more than six years.

“The idea for this event began when we learned about Eric Brown’s wish to ride a bike again,” said Phi Delta Theta fraternity member Harrison Herget. “Knowing that he battles ALS, we were inspired to help him achieve this goal. Initially, we planned to design a way for him to ride alongside our fraternity brothers, but then we thought—why stop there?

“What if we could turn this into something bigger, an event that not only supports Eric but also raises money for ALS research? With that vision in mind, we started brainstorming with members and parents, determined to make this event open and accessible to everyone. We wanted as many people as possible to be part of Eric’s journey. That’s why we created different route options, ranging from one mile to six, so people of all ages and abilities can participate in this meaningful cause.”

Herget said the primary goal of the event is to bring together as many participants as possible for the fraternity’s first-ever ALS Ride/Walk/Run.   

“We want to make a significant impact—not just by raising funds, but by raising awareness,” he said. “Every dollar we collect will go toward making a difference in the lives of those affected by ALS. Seeing a strong turnout would mean the world to us, and we hope to set the foundation for an event that continues to grow each year.”

A portion of the proceeds from the upcoming event will go toward assisting Brown.

“Many of our members have known Eric for years, and we’ve witnessed firsthand how ALS has impacted his life,” Herget said. “He has always been a kind and generous person, and now he needs the same kindness and generosity in return. ALS is a devastating disease that comes with immense medical and financial burdens. Eric is unable to work, and the cost of treatment, equipment and care adds up quickly. By dedicating part of the funds to him, we hope to provide some relief and help him maintain the best possible quality of life. A substantial donation could be life-changing for him, and we’re honored to play a role in supporting him.”

Brown says he was first diagnosed with ALS in 2019, after experiencing weakness on his left side.

“My left hand was weak, and my left leg was hesitant when I would walk and/or ride my bike,” said Brown. “I started falling after stumbling. I was finally diagnosed February 28, 2019, at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Now, I’m not able to walk without assistance from a walker or wheelchair, along with having difficulty speaking due to a weakening diaphragm.”

Gearhead Outfitters’ owners Ted and Amanda Herget purchased an adult bike trailer for Brown to provide a way for him to ride in the upcoming fundraiser. His longtime friend and bike riding companion, attorney Paul Ford, will be pulling Brown in the trailer behind his bike on March 16, which happens to be Ford’s birthday.

Ford said he and Brown met through church initially, and soon realized that they both rode bikes.

“I believe we rode actively together, preparing for rides, for 10-12 years,” said Ford. “After 2009, we probably just rode for kicks and giggles.”

Brown estimates it has been six or seven years since he has been able to participate in a bike ride. He described his reaction to the possibility of riding again when approached about the upcoming event.
“Excitement beyond your imagination,” said Brown of his response when he was told about the Phi Delta Theta ride. “I asked Paul and Ted Herget a few years ago after my diagnosis if we could ride together one more time. They looked at me and said okay but didn’t know really how to respond to me.”

Ford said he will be participating in the five-day Arkansas Graveler again this June and plans to ride in the Hotter ‘N Hell Hundred Endurance Ride in Wichita Falls, Texas, in August – a ride he and Eric have participated in together numerous times.
“I thought it would be a way I could honor Eric,” he said. If he is able, Ford said he would like to do complete the Texas ride with Eric once again by pulling him in the trailer.

As his battle with ALS has progressed in severity over the years, Brown says the challenges have increased as well.

“Getting dressed in the morning takes about an hour, and 2.5 hours if I shower,” said Brown. “Eating has become a challenge due to the progression of ALS affecting my throat and swallowing. Now, due to my speech, my ability to communicate is suffering.”

In addition to physical challenges, Brown says it is financially challenging for him to be able to access clinical trials and to have the time to participate in those when he is not having to work to cover unexpected bills.
Additional expenses involve converting his home to make it wheelchair-friendly, along with being able to control electronics within his home from his phone and other AID devices, as well as adding accessories to his wheelchair and home as the disease progresses.

Despite the challenges he has faced in recent years, Herget describes Brown as a very positive person with a great outlook.

“I’ve known Eric my entire life, and he has always been an incredible person,” said Herget. “Despite the challenges of ALS, his spirit remains strong. He continues to be deeply involved in his church and maintains a positive attitude that inspires everyone around him. Eric approaches life with resilience, faith and an unwavering sense of hope. Considering everything he has endured, his outlook is nothing short of remarkable.”

Members of the fraternity plan for this to be an annual event.

“Giving back is at the heart of Phi Delta Theta, and when we find opportunities to make a real impact, we take them,” said Herget. “This event is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a way to bring the community together, honor Eric, and support those affected by ALS. Our hope is to continue growing this event year after year, reaching more people and making an even greater difference.”

Phi Delta Theta will present its inaugural ALS Ride/Walk/Run on March 16 at 2 p.m. Registration is $20 per person with one, three or six-mile options. For more information, follow A-State Phi Delt on social media.