Lawrence Business Owner to Bike Across U.S.

Editor's Note: The following is a news release issued on behalf of Lawrence Township-based .

A 50th birthday is often an unwanted milestone for many. Few individuals willingly embrace being a half of century old as an opportunity to challenge one’s mind, body, and soul. For nearly 20 years, Phil Cooper, president and CEO of Cooper Pest Solutions and BedBug Central, knew his 50th birthday would be different.

Cooper - an active cyclist, spin instructor, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) fundraiser - decided to combine his three passions and team up with the Bike the US for MS team. Cooper’s journey, which is documented entirely at PhilAcrossAmerica.com, will highlight his journey as he cycles through the United States, starting in Yorktown, Va., and ending 3,780 miles and 60 days later in San Francisco, Calif., all to raise awareness and funds for Multiple Sclerosis. 

“For over 20 years I’ve participated in various MS bike rides and have successfully fundraised thousands of dollars to this amazing cause. I always knew I wanted to challenge myself physically and mentally for my 50th birthday, but I knew I wanted to aid the cause I’m so passionate about,” said Cooper. “To prep for my journey, I’m pushing my body and my mind harder than I ever have before. I’m working with a trainer and a nutritionist to transform my body to a mean, lean cycling machine!”

Cooper connected with the MS Society in 1994 when he saw a display which advertised the Multiple Sclerosis Delaware Valley Chapter MS150 City to Shore Bike Ride at a local gym. Cooper who always cycled as a hobby decided to embark on this challenge. For over 18 years, Cooper has participated in bike rides for MS and has witnessed first-hand what those who have MS Experience.

Those who know Phil Cooper know he enjoys an “experience”. Even while Biking the US for MS, Cooper wants everyone to experience this journey with him. Cooper and his team created PhilAcrossAmerica.com which incorporates various social media, blog posts, and videos that captures this entire journey, from the start of his training to the competition of the ride this summer.

“I am very passionate about finding a cure for MS, and I want people to experience this journey with me. Not only to support me and the other Bike the US for MS riders, but I’m hoping my passion for the cause will help inspire additional donations,” said Cooper. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m encouraging everyone to join me on the ride and bike with me and my team, however, I understand not everyone can. For those who can’t, I’m trying to make PhilAcrossAmerica.com as interactive as possible.”

Currently, this journey has encouraged Cooper’s family, friends, professional contacts, and colleagues in the pest management industry across the nation to support his journey as he raises awareness and funds for MS.

In total, Cooper strives to raise over $50,000 in donations by the completion of his journey.

“If I can raise awareness and donations for MS, my ride was an ultimate success. Thousands of individuals are affected by this disease and I plan to do my part to help find a cure,” said Cooper. “This journey will be a challenge, but I am motivated to Bike the US for MS in honor of those suffering from the disease. They are my inspiration and my motivation for this 60 day journey.”

To follow Phil Cooper on his journey across the United States, visit www.philacrossamerica.com.

About Phil Across America

Phil Cooper, President and CEO of Cooper Pest Solutions and BedBug Central will be joining the Bike the US for MS team to raise awareness and donations for Multiple Sclerosis. Phil Cooper will be cycling 3,780 miles for 60 days starting in Virginia and ending in California with the other members of the Bike the US for MS team. To follow his journey, visit www.philacrossamerica.com