Jacob Landis, 24, of Annapolis Maryland, is hitting a home run for hearing by cycling to ALL 30 Major League Baseball stadiums to raise funds for those who can benefit from a cochlear implant (CI) yet cannot afford one. A cochlear implant is a “bionic ear” which is magnetically attached to a device that is surgically implanted into one’s ear. It is a surgery that can cost up to $100,000. Deaf by age of 10, Jacob had progressively lost his hearing. He was no longer able to hear his coach or the crack of a bat at his beloved baseball games and struggled both socially and academically. In June 1999 at John Hopkins Hospital, through the amazing new technology of a cochlear implant surgery, he was restored with the gift of hearing. Now as an adult he has been inspired to combine his love of cycling and baseball for this courageous 175-day fundraising journey. This will be a trek of 10,500 miles across the nation.
Currently, Jacob is on the longest leg of the trip, Minneapolis to Seattle for the Mariners game at Safeco Field on Friday June 21st at 7:10pm with a goal of raising $10,000 toward the $1 million goal.
Find out what's happening in Kirklandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
On April 3rd Jacob took off from Annapolis to The Nationals game in Washington, DC. Since then he has pedaled north bearing chilly weather yet very warm welcomes at all the major league baseball stadiums throughout the northeast, up to Toronto and across the mid west. Between hilly terrain, freezing rain, and flat tires the adventure is quite a challenge. Jacob is going strong and thrilled to see each stadium and meet new friends along the way. This inspirational young man has touched the hearts of so many.
Find out what's happening in Kirklandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Along the Ride, Jacob has had the opportunity to meet several baseball players, walk the in-fields, visit batting practice, throw the ceremonial first pitch at two parks, and has been introduced on many of the parks jumbotrons. All of this effort is to raise funds to give others a dream come true with the gift of hearing.
Jacob’s Ride offers several options for the public to show their support. If you would like to join Jacob at a game or purchase a tee shirt please visit the website; www.jacobsride.com. The Seattle Mariners have reserved a block of tickets in section 116 along the first base line. Jacob will be throwing the ceremonial first pitch at Friday’s game and be introduced to the stadium. Please spread the word to help reach our $10,000 goal for the Seattle area. Donations may be made via website, Facebook page, or simply by texting “Jacob” to 50555 for a $10 contribution (standard message and data rates may apply Terms: mgive.org/t). We strongly encourage and appreciate any social media support. Please find Jacob’s Ride on Facebook, Twitter @Jacobsride2013 and Youtube Jacobsride2013.