Just two years ago, if local skater Rob Pontes wasn’t traveling for work, he was skateboarding or playing with his daughters. Sadly, the husband and father of two was diagnosed with ALS and his treatments are ongoing and expensive. As the disease progressed, the only wheels he’s been able to ride are on his wheelchair. For any passionate skater it’s a dream crusher, but as a family man it’s only more devastating.
For years, Rob’s work benefited the East Coast skating community, and now the community is returning the favor by raising money to help with medical bills. Roll for Rob was created to raise funds for Rob and his family. Local skate shops sell customized decks, shirts and other Roll For Rob gear, and multiple skate benefits have been held featuring professional skaters like Erik Ellington, Anthony Shetler, Peter Ramondetta, the Vans skateboard team and more. Proceeds go towards the family’s GoFundMe Page, which has already raised over $40k of its $30k goal.
The latest fundraiser, hosted by skate shop Civil, gathered people downtown for the state’s largest skating event. Civil also sells merchandise in their downcity store, with profits going directly to Rob. “He’s a really great guy – a genuine, honest and thoughtful person. So I’m not surprised to see this huge show of support,” says long-time friend Rob Asselin of Civil.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here