Rowers to cross Pacific Ocean to raise $28M for Parkinson’s research
4 athletes, 1 with Parkinson’s, team up on 2,800-mile row to benefit MJFF
Four endurance athletes, one of whom has Parkinson’s disease, have embarked on a 2,800-mile rowing journey across the Pacific Ocean this summer. The team’s goal is to raise $28 million for Parkinson’s research through The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research(MJFF).
The “Team Human Powered Potential” aims to traverse the distance between Monterey Bay, California, and Hanalei Bay, in Kauai, Hawaii.  To mark their efforts — calling it “an epic feat” — the MJFF launched the “Summer Challenge,” a global campaign open to all and designed to support the rowers as they strive to reach both their rowing and fundraising goals.
The initiatives are being supported by an anonymous foundation donor who will match three to one all contributions to the team, meaning every $1 raised through the end of August will be turned into a $4 donation.  So far, the campaign has raised more than $23.5 million.
“I hope I am an inspiration to others,” Patrick Morrissey, a team member who has been living with Parkinson’s since 2019, said in a foundation press release. “I will be the first person to row across the Pacific with Parkinson’s and that accomplishment will help the Parkinson’s community understand that we can do anything, together.”
Morrissey, 53, from Colorado, will test his physical strength and endurance limits alongside his friends and fellow rowers Brendan Cusick, Peter Durso, and Scott Forman. They will row 24 hours a day, at intervals of two hours on and two hours off, to arrive in Kauai in fewer than 40 days. If the team meets its goal, Morrissey will become the first person living with Parkinson’s to complete a cross-Pacific row, according to the MJFF.
Fox personally thanks rowers in fundraiser for Parkinson’s research
The rowers’ fundraising efforts have earned praise directly from the MJFF’s founder.
“Parkinson’s patients are experts on endurance. We endure every day to do the things we need to do with the limitations and setbacks we have. So, when people do things like this, it’s such an act of solidarity, understanding and support,” Michael J. Fox said.
He added: “We have a lot of experience of people doing some amazing things for Parkinson’s research. We’ve had people climb extraordinary mountains and run ultra-marathons — but this is a first.”
Fox thanked the four athletes for their efforts, “sending out our love, support, admiration and all good wishes.”
Parkinson’s patients are experts on endurance. We endure every day to do the things we need to do with the limitations and setbacks we have. So, when people do things like this, it’s such an act of solidarity, understanding and support.
The foundation will follow the journey through video diary footage and regular updates from the team’s coach, who will be in touch with the rowers via satellite phone. The Parkinson’s community is invited to check in for news on the journey’s progress and challenges.
Supporters may join the summer challenge by registering their own rowing, cycling, swimming, running, or walking event, helping raise funds and awareness while the rowers complete their journey. Registration is open for individuals and families, with a $28 per person registration fee that will be matched to each supporter’s fundraising goal.
Participants who fundraise at least $280 will receive limited edition rewards by reaching different tiers. The swag includes a branded tote bag, Nike baseball hat, quilted picnic blanket, and North Face backpack.
On the weekend of July 19-21, when the rowers are expected to arrive in Kauai, Summer Match participants will be invited to join virtually for community engagement and celebration. Those not joining the challenge may donate in support of the rowing team, with their contributions also matched.
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