A Friend Indeed

Angelo DiVincenzo and Alyson

His goal met, Angelo DiVincenzo now has his eyes on the big prize: An additional $10,000 for the Scleroderma Foundation.

The Miami man next month will compete in the Ironman Florida Triathlon to honor his best friend, Alyson, who was diagnosed with scleroderma in 2005. He set a fundraising mark of $10,000, and he recently exceeded that mark in pledges. Now, his hope is to become the top fundraiser in the competition; if that happens Janus will donate an additional $10,000 to the Foundation. He will also receive an additional donation if he is among the top five fundraisers.

The 140-mile endurance race consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon run.

“This disease has been difficult on Alyson,” said Angelo, who lives in Miami and when not training works in real estate. “But we are all learning as much as possible about scleroderma, trying to keep positive.

“I am dedicated to spreading awareness and raising money for scleroderma research in honor of Alyson. Just knowing that all the funds go directly to the Foundation for people in need keeps me focused on my training.”

If you want more information or wish to make a donation, go to http://januscharitychallenge.kintera.org/fl07/angelo.