Bike 4 Briar is a charitable initiative focused on raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome research. Inspired by Briar, a child living with the condition, Charlie Nuck and Todd Downey have committed to cycling over 4,200 miles across the United States. Their journey, starting in Washington and ending in Maine, is designed to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by Angelman Syndrome. The funds raised will directly support research aimed at developing effective treatments and ultimately, a cure. The sheer scale of the ride underscores the importance of the cause and the dedication of the participants.
Bike 4 Briar is a charitable initiative focused on raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome research. Inspired by Briar, a child living with the condition, Charlie Nuck and Todd Downey have committed to cycling over 4,200 miles across the United States. Their journey, starting in Washington and ending in Maine, is designed to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by Angelman Syndrome. The funds raised will directly support research aimed at developing effective treatments and ultimately, a cure. The sheer scale of the ride underscores the importance of the cause and the dedication of the participants.
What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare neurogenetic disorder, occurring in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births. This condition stems from the loss or malfunction of the UBE3A gene on chromosome 15, which is crucial for brain development. As a result, individuals with AS experience significant developmental delays, impaired motor coordination, and limited or no speech. Notably, those with AS often display a characteristically happy disposition, frequently smiling and laughing.
While there is currently no cure, Angelman Syndrome is considered a leading candidate for gene therapy research. Scientists are exploring methods to activate the dormant UBE3A gene, which could potentially reverse the symptoms and offer a therapeutic breakthrough.
What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare neurogenetic disorder, occurring in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births. This condition stems from the loss or malfunction of the UBE3A gene on chromosome 15, which is crucial for brain development. As a result, individuals with AS experience significant developmental delays, impaired motor coordination, and limited or no speech. Notably, those with AS often display a characteristically happy disposition, frequently smiling and laughing.
While there is currently no cure, Angelman Syndrome is considered a leading candidate for gene therapy research. Scientists are exploring methods to activate the dormant UBE3A gene, which could potentially reverse the symptoms and offer a therapeutic breakthrough.
Our Story
In April, the passing of John Nuck, Briar's grandfather, deeply impacted his family and friends. To honor his memory and support the cause close to his heart—finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome—his longtime fraternity brother, Todd Downey, initiated Bike 4 Briar. Todd committed to a 4,200-mile cycling journey from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, a tribute to their 45-year friendship and a drive to raise awareness and funds. Upon hearing of this endeavor, Briar's uncle, Charlie, joined the effort.
Starting May 27th, they will cycle approximately 80 miles daily for two months, dedicating their ride to hope, remembrance, and the pursuit of a cure.
Our Story
In April, the passing of John Nuck, Briar's grandfather, deeply impacted his family and friends. To honor his memory and support the cause close to his heart—finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome—his longtime fraternity brother, Todd Downey, initiated Bike 4 Briar. Todd committed to a 4,200-mile cycling journey from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, a tribute to their 45-year friendship and a drive to raise awareness and funds. Upon hearing of this endeavor, Briar's uncle, Charlie, joined the effort.
Starting May 27th, they will cycle approximately 80 miles daily for two months, dedicating their ride to hope, remembrance, and the pursuit of a cure.
Our Riders
Todd Downey
We would like to introduce Mr. Todd Downey…TD for short! Todd attended Miami University where he and John Nuck were members of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Todd is happily retired and works part time slinging beers at a local craft brewery, 50 West. Todd is an avid cyclist and in 2023 he rode the Southern Tier which starts in California and ends cross country in St Augustine, Florida! He lives in Mason Ohio with his lovely wife of 42 years, Amy. Together they have two kids, Amanda and Tyler, and when asked about a fun fact he said that his most favorite weekend of the year is the Considine Invitational, which is a charitable golf outing for the Pike fraternity brothers that has been going on for the past 35 years!!!
Charlie Nuck
The second half of the riding team is Charlie Nuck. Unlike TD, Charlie is not an avid cyclist and just bought a bike in August 😂. Some say he has a screw or two loose, but he is just an adventure seeking adrenaline junkie looking to make his Dad proud and do good in this world. He saw this as an opportunity to honor his Dad’s memory while helping find a cure that has potential to positively change his nieces life as well as everyone else who is effected by Angleman Syndrome. When he isn’t traveling around the world, he resides in Cincinnati where he owns and operates a construction company. He is a self proclaimed candy enthusiast, a yes-man when it comes to adventure, and loves to be surrounded by friends and family!
How to Support
Spread Awareness
Donate
100% of all donations go directly to FAST (Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics) a 501(c)3 non-profit patient advocacy organization whose sole mission is to find a cure for AS (Tax ID: 26-3160079). to fund life-changing research and help find a cure. Every dollar makes a difference!
Become a Sponsor
Businesses and organizations can support the ride by donating funds, services, or products. Sponsors who contribute $5,000 or more will have their company logo featured on the cyclists’ jerseys, gaining national exposure while supporting an incredible cause.
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