The Beier Family: Michael and Theresa Beier, with the MDA NY City Team (Dennis Diaz, Kailee Scales, John Tagnino, Victor Wright, & Leah Bailin) Dedication ceremony of the Michael & Theresa Beier MDA Wings Over Wall Street ALS Research Fund at the Eleanor and Lou Gehrig MDA/ALS Research Center Columbia University December 18, 2002 "It is with deep emotion and profound gratitude that I recognize the unwavering support of my family, friends, and colleagues. I often feel more fortunate than others affected by this disease since I can presently walk, talk, and breathe on my own. However, without a cure, I know that my limbs, speech, and breath will ultimately fail. ALS is a disease that has made me angry at the ways it affects me, the thousands of others diagnosed, and all of our loved ones. Since my diagnosis, I have vowed to do anything and everything possible to help stop this disease so that my children will never be threatened." Michael Patrick Beier, a NASDAQ trader for over 17 years has spent the past nine years as Director of Equity Trading for Credit Suisse/First Boston. Until a little over a year ago, this Long Island native enjoyed the simple pleasures of exercise, travel, and quality time spent with his wife Theresa and children Carly (five), and Dustin (three). Michael's life was changed forever on December 29, 2000 when, while seeking medical advice for a bothersome limp, he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Michael, who experiences the debilitating effects of ALS a bit more each day, resolved to take an active role in the struggle to fund research to cure his disease. In the summer of 2001, while receiving treatment at The Eleanor and Lou Gehrig MDA/ALS Research Center with Dr. Hiroshi Mitsumoto, Michael learned of an MDA Manhattan event to directly benefit ALS research and treatment taking place that fall. He immediately became an active member of the fundraising effort, and was largely responsible for the inaugural "Wings of Hope" gala's raising an unprecedented $650,000. For his tireless commitment and optimism that continues to inspire everyone he touches, Michael was Wings of Hope's distinguished Spirit Award recipient. page 3