During the last 10 years, there have been countless tributes to those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 attacks. But one man sought to devote his time and energy to a tribute bike ride across America.

In Anchorage, Alaska, a little more than a month ago, Max McManus decided to risk it all and put his body through a lot to honor the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. With just his bicycle and a lot of work ahead of him, McManus will endure a 7,500-mile bike race through all 50 states in just 50 days.

McManus was biking through Missouri as of Aug. 22.

According to the news release, McManus has promised to bike 150 miles each day and pass through each state in one continuous manner. He has biked 3,500 miles, which is almost halfway, and he is still going strong.

“My appreciation for this country and its people grows with each new place that I see,” said McManus, a fitness trainer from Nevada. “I’ve gained something different and valuable everywhere I’ve been and it never leaves me.”

On average, McManus spends anywhere from eight to 10 hours a day biking to reach his goal of 150 miles per day. Each day is a new adventure that comes with new challenges, all of which he is ready and willing to pursue to support his country.

“The support of U.S. people will give me the strength to push through the most difficult parts of my ride,” McManus said. “Whether through encouraging thoughts, generous donations or support riders, I appreciate the support, and hope I can make a difference.”

As McManus has shown through his efforts to complete what he calls the “Freedom 50/50” tribute ride, he is not only encouraging others to help but is proving that it takes one person to make a difference.

McManus has received well more than $13,500 in donations because of his tribute, according to the news release.

After McManus completes the 50/50 tribute ride, donations will be sent to the HelpAmerica Foundation. According to the foundation’s website, it is a non-profit corporation that gives financial assistance to wounded service members and families who have lost loved ones.

To conclude the Freedom 50/50 tribute, in about a month, when McManus finishes his race in New York, a ceremony will be held at ground zero to honor the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks as stated in the news release.

When McManus makes it through the 7,500 miles to the finish line, he will not only be given his own place in the Guinness Book of World Records but also honor those who were lost in the attacks of 9/11.

To make a donation to the project, go to the Freedom 50/50 website at [www.freedom5050.com](ww.freedom5050.com) and click on the word “donate.”