Ironman Race for Phil and Transplant House

**Support Retired Corporal Phil Sickinger in His Battle Against ALS & The Clyde F. Barker Penn Transplant House**

In a spirit of camaraderie and purpose, Anthony Vincent and I, Sean Macleary have registered for the Ironman Chattanooga 140.6 Race together, each selecting a charity close to our hearts to support through our efforts. Anthony has chosen to raise money for Phil Sickinger and his family, and I chose to raise money for the UPenn Transplant House. Read more below:

Phil Sickinger and His Battle With ALS

Retired Corporal Phil Sickinger of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office is facing the toughest fight of his life. Diagnosed with ALS in January 2020, Phil is battling this relentless disease with the unwavering support of his loving wife Diana and their two daughters, 8-year-old Harper and 11-year-old Olivia.

Phil's journey has been incredibly challenging. Initially feeling extremely weak, he suspected Lyme disease. However, after visiting multiple specialists, including rheumatologists, an infectious disease doctor, neurologists, an endocrinologist, and a neuromuscular doctor at Robert Wood Johnson, he received the devastating ALS diagnosis. Further testing confirmed he also has Lyme disease and mold toxicity.

ALS has significantly impacted Phil's life, limiting his physical abilities and preventing him from performing daily tasks, both at work and at home. Simple activities like playing with his daughters, writing, and typing have become difficult. Despite these challenges, Phil continues to fight with incredible strength and determination.

Phil's family, friends, the Sheriff’s Department, and the community have rallied around him, offering invaluable support. Many have stepped in to help with chores and ensure Phil is as comfortable as possible at home. His therapy includes both in-home sessions and treatments at specialized facilities.

Now in his fifth year since diagnosis, Phil uses a noninvasive ventilator 24/7 and a PEG tube for nutrition. Thanks to the generosity of donors, he receives round-the-clock live-in care, which is crucial for his comfort and well-being. However, his monthly out-of-pocket medical expenses total around $10,000.

In show of support, Officer Anthony Vincent from the Stafford Twp. Police Department (where Diana Sickinger is also employed) will be competing in the 2024 Ironman 140.6 Chattanooga to raise funds for Phil. This challenging event involves a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. Officer Vincent’s dedication and effort symbolize the strength and solidarity of our community in supporting Phil.

The Clyde F. Barker Penn Transplant House

The Clyde F. Barker Penn Transplant House, part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, offers a supportive and welcoming environment for transplant patients and their families. Conveniently located near the Penn Medicine campus, it provides comfortable accommodations, including private rooms, communal kitchens, and shared living spaces, designed to alleviate the stress of long-term medical treatments. The Transplant House fosters a sense of community, allowing families to connect and support each other during a challenging time, ensuring a home-away-from-home experience for those undergoing life-saving transplant procedures.

Sean is competing to raise money for the Clyde F. Barker Transplant House in honor of his father. Our donation to the Transplant House serves as a tribute to his memory, ensuring that others receive the same level of care and support our family experienced during my father’s numerous stays at UPenn.

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Together, through the Ironman race and our charitable contributions, we forge connections and leave a lasting impact, embodying the spirit of resilience, generosity, and community. Our journey becomes more profound as we weave together personal narratives of resilience and gratitude. With each stride, we remember my father's legacy, and the ability to help a first line family by infusing our race with purpose and meaning.

We want to assure you that all travel and expenses for the Ironman have already been covered. This means that 100% of your donations will go directly to supporting Phil and his family (covering his substantial medical expenses and ensuring he continues to receive the best possible care), as well as to the Clyde F. Barker Penn Transplant House.

Please join us in show of support of Phil Sickinger his family and my father’s Memory with Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference. Thank you for your generosity and support.

#SupportPhilSickinger #ALS #CommunitySupport #FightALS #IronmanForPhil #ForDad

Thank you,

Anthony and Sean