Why I Ride - Yes, that’s my mom, Lucy, surrounded by her spirited daughters! This photo catches us in a moment of calm in our yearly, much anticipated and loved vacation to Ocean City MD. It is hard to believe, looking at this photo from my wonderful early years that my mom’s life would take such a drastic turn. My mom, Lucy, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s over 12 years ago. My family, meaning my Dad and all 4 of us sisters, along with a dedicated group of in home caregivers, took care of Lucy ever since her diagnosis. It was life changing for my entire family. Hence, Team Lucy! 

I have participated in this ride for 5 years now, as captain of Team Lucy. Every year has been a marker in a very long journey with Alzheimer’s for my mom and for my family.  I remember years past stopping to see my mom during the ride as the route took us past my parents house in Loveland, Colorado. This year is different. We lost my mom just a little over a year ago and I miss her presence dearly. I am comforted knowing that she has gone on to be with her Lord in heaven. She and my father raised myself and my sisters with this blessed assurance. I will ride this year in the hopes that others do not suffer from this horrible disease. This is for all of us. If you don’t experience it first hand there is still a very good chance your life will be affected by this disease in some way. We need to find a cure.

Right now, there is no shortage of ideas in Alzheimer’s research — only dollars. Which is why I am asking for your support. I am participating on the Ride to End ALZ, a fully-supported, one day fundraising event where every dollar raised supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to discover methods of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s disease.

With each mile I ride, I am raising funds to advance research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s. Thank you for cheering me on and supporting the ride!