38 Riders Help Teacher, Cornea Transplant Recipient's Mission

Gary Abud is thankful for his vision. It's never something he takes for granted. At 10, he was diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease and as his vision repeatedly declined, he'd get use to it.

Now, after two cornea transplants, Abud has perfect vision. He compares the transformation to "looking through a rain-covered windshield in a severe storm," to noticing the details of everyday life. His wife's smile, street signs, and more. 

In an effort to help support the Michigan Eye Bank--an organization dedicated to helping people like Abud regain their vision--he held a spinning fundraiser this month at Next Level Heath and Fitness.

It was a perfect marriage for Abud, who regularly teaches spinning at the St. Clair Shores fitness center. A total of 38 riders participated in one-hour spinning sessions, according to Alex Teska, Michigan Eye Bank Community Engagement Associate. Michigan Senator Steve Bieda also made an appearance at the event, she said.

In addition to raising funds for the eye bank, the event was also intended to help spread the word about organ and tissue donation. Abud feels lucky to have received two corneas to have drastically improved his daily life and he wants others to know they too can help. 

A registry was set up at the event and those still interested in registering can visit the Gift of Life Michigan website. 

Abud spent his spring break from Grosse Pointe North, where he teaches physics, for the event.