Gamma Xi-Wichita State Wichita State Member Becomes First Female Iron Phi Sawyer Kirkland (Gamma Xi-Wichita State) recently reached new heights as the first-ever female Iron Phi for the Kansas Delta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta at Wichita State University. Iron Phi was developed as a way to strengthen both the Phi Delta Theta men’s fraternity and its impact on the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease. To become an Iron Phi, participants must select an athletic endeavor of their choice, raise $1,000 through the Iron Phi website and accomplish the athletic endeavor itself. Sawyer chose skydiving as her athletic endeavor to raise awareness for ALS research. Lou Gehrig was known as the "Iron Horse" during his baseball career because of his durability and perseverance. His prowess as a hitter, consecutive games- played record (2,130) and won’t-quit attitude after being stricken with ALS inspired those around him. The name Iron Phi was given to the initiative to encourage those involved to remember Lou's approach to life when setting out to achieve something. According to IronPhi.org, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body. The progressive degeneration of the motor neurons in ALS eventually leads to their death. When the motor neurons die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. With voluntary muscle action progressively affected, patients in the later stages of the disease may become totally paralyzed.
Theta- Sigma
Theta Sigma-Southern Utah Alpha Phi at Southern Utah Serves Animals in Need The Theta Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi at Southern Utah University recently ventured into the mountains of Kanab, Utah, to visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a community service project, where they helped staff members deep-clean and transport crates, spruced up the shelter's van, played with several of its four-legged residents and cuddled some sweet puppies. “Interacting with a variety of creatures, from lively pups to gentle giants, brought us moments of joy and affection that touched our hearts deeply,” expressed Kate Gorey, the Vice President of Marketing for Theta Sigma. One of the chapter’s members even adopted one of the shelter’s available puppies, further embodying Alpha Phi’s dedication to making a lasting impact on the community. “We met staff, volunteers and visitors during lunch at Angel Village inside the sanctuary and got to hear their stories and experiences with Best Friends,” Kate said. “Our guide Alison created a memorable experience where service and compassion created positive ripples. Through dedicated efforts in caring for the animals, our sisters ensured a safe haven for every resident [by] fostering an environment where love and care [can continue to] thrive.” Keep up with Theta Sigma by following the chapter on Instagram @alphaphisuu.
Anyone is welcome to take on the Iron Phi challenge.
“I am incredibly grateful for the experience to become the first female Iron Phi of Phi Delta Theta-Kansas Delta,” Kirkland expressed. “Here is to leaving ALS better than we found it!”
Congratulations, Sawyer!
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