Johnny Warnshuis is riding horseback from Redding, Calif., to New York City, to spread awareness for GBS/CIDP, a disorder of the body's immune system that attacks the peripheral nerves. The disease hits close to home for Johnny, as his mother recently fell victim to the rare disorder, which occurs in only one or two people in 100,000. His mother, Sally, is still in recovery and is supportive of her son’s journey for the cause.

After months by her side in the hospital and finally getting his mom into housing, he was left with nothing but his horse and the drive to make a difference. With the economic situation our country faces today, it was either fight for survival or ride. So he decided to ride, and to give back.

Johnny rides 20 to 30 miles per day on average, depending on the weather and the terrain. He was originally going to take the Oregon Trail, but due to the long winter he chose to take a southern route. Johnny has spent many nights camped out along the highway between towns, and rests his team for a night or two as soon as he reaches civilization again.

Johnny is proud to be using two rescued horses, Sandy and Modoc, one of which was donated by Homer Fagan, who runs a horse rescue operation in Oak Run, Calif. The other was donated by Rachel Rutherford of Holbrook, Ariz.

Johnny doesn't ask for handouts, instead he offers trade for room, board, feed, and a hot shower. He has stacked countless bails of hay, cleaned plenty of horse stalls, hung signs, and even helped build an addition on a home outside of Reno, Nev. He has faced numerous challenges, including a mountain lion attack, broken ribs, and days on end with no shower... his horses must come first! Through this Johnny has learned about the human spirit and how compassionate people can truly be.

This journey has been extremely challenging, however, not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. The desert was extremely difficult as there were many miles between towns. He would ride hard for a few days and rest up a few. Since he hit Texas, the towns have been a day or two apart and the people have been amazing. Johnny always seems to meet just the right person or family, the ones who gain just as much from him as he gains from them.

To follow along with Johnny on his ride via photos, videos, a guest book, and blog, visit www.cowboyforacure.com