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For some
time now I have been contemplating what I ultimately
hope to contribute to "society". Two years
of exhaustive studying for my M.B.A. combined with copious
quantities of coffee, frozen pizzas and nominal amounts
of sleep had taken a toll on my physical being. I wanted
to do something that would allow me to get back in shape
and at the same time let me to contribute to others'
lives. My approaching graduation provided a transition
to the next stage in my life, and the period in between
the diploma and a flexible employer proved to be an
ideal time to take advantage of another passion: traveling.
As I considered
these three interests, I saw the unique opportunity
to combine them into a long distance bicycle trip to
raise money for a good cause. Having spent most of the
last decade living and working outside of the United
States, I viewed a cross-country trip as an excellent
chance to reacquaint myself with my country. Things
fell into place when I discovered that 2003 was the
beginning of the bicentennial celebration of Lewis &
Clark's journey and that a route closely following the
trail was being developed. Reading Stephen Ambrose's
Undaunted Courage, the story of Lewis & Clark's
memorable travels solidified my desire to follow this
route.
My decision
to ride for cancer was easy. I have lost several friends
and family members to the disease. When we consider
the statistics it becomes apparent how far-reaching
the disease is. In the United States alone, it is expected
that over 1500 people a day will die from cancer in
2003. Cancer accounts for 1 of every 4 deaths in the
United States and is second only to heart disease as
the number one killer in the U.S. My resolve to make
a difference is absolute.
The final
piece of the puzzle fell into place when I discovered
the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Cancer survivor and
champion cyclist Lance Armstrong established the nonprofit
organization in 1997. As a cancer survivor and world-renowned
cyclist, his accomplishment's inspired me. My hope is
to make a positive impact on the world of cancer survivorship
and research by raising funds and awareness for the
foundation. I encourage you to visit the Lance Armstrong
Foundation's website www.laf.org
to learn more about the organization and to surf my
website to learn more about the trip.
Help me
make a difference. Donate to the cause; your contributions
will go to support the survivorship programs and cancer
research of the Lance Armstrong Foundation. On behalf
of those who benefit from the Foundation, thank you.
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