Why I Ride:
After years of participating in many organized rides, the Ride to End ALZ seemed to beckon me. I was too old for Century Rides, but my family (especially, my Aunt Judy!) immediately came to mind. "Ju" was my Mom's older sister. She was bright, witty, and a great storyteller. She was smart! She was hilarious! And I was glued to her stories of growing up during the 50s & 60s! She was awesome! My family is AWESOME!!
We watched helplessly, as my Aunt Judy became a shell of her former self. My Mom, the next eldest sibling, became Ju's primary caretaker. I watched Ju slowly decline and saw the toll it took on my Mom, my aunt Alice, and my uncle Steve. Not the actual work it took to care for her, but the emotions of witnessing Ju's loss of cognizance and ability.
I don't wish that helplessness, hopelessness, and frustration upon anybody!
Judy was taken from us in March 2014. We miss her very much, especially around the holidays.
I'm not the cyclist I was 10 years ago, but I still can ride. I am still lucid and I will fight the fight to do all I can to squash this f'ing disease.
Judy had no children of her own. My siblings and my cousins are her legacy. With that, I carry the gene. Alzheimer's disease is daring me to ride so I'm preparing to do my part to kick its ass.
Death by a thousand paper cuts. I pray that my participation and contribution are integral in finding a cure. I hope that, at the very least, I can help slow its progression.
100% of general donations go directly to support research. Help us #EndAlz
I love you, Ju!
Cheer Me On!