Those who have been reading this blog for more than a year most likely remember that last Summer I participated in the Philadelphia LIVESTRONG Challenge and tackled the 70 mile course in an effort raise money for the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) and, more importantly, support my friend Gerald in his continued fight against cancer. It was an incredible physical and mental challenge that I still to this day remember quite vividly and fondly. (You can read my race recap from last year for the details.)

In just under three weeks, on August 22nd, I will once again be traveling to Philadelphia to accept the challenge for the 2nd year, however this year, I’ve somehow allowed Gerald to talk me into riding the 100 mile course. So far training has been tough given all of the recent heat in DC this summer as I’ve struggled to complete training rides of 60, 65, and 75 miles over the past couple of weeks.

The LIVESTRONG Challenge is an event wherein people from all over gather to participate in either a 5K run/walk or one of several different bike rides, a 10-, 45-, 70-, or 100-mile ride all to raise money and awareness for the fight against cancer. The LAF strives to inspire and empower those who have been affected by the disease and hopes to make cancer a national priority. The money the LAF generates is used to help close the gap between what we know and what we do in the cancer fight by providing everyone with better access to early screening and care, funding research related to survivorship. My goal this year is to raise $2000 for the LAF and to somehow complete the 100 mile course.

If you have a moment, and the means, please take a moment to learn more about my participation and contribute to the cause: http://philly2010.livestrong.org/dascentral.

While Gerald is the one who inspired me to accept this challenge, he is not the only one in my life who has been affected by cancer. In addition to supporting Gerald, I will also be riding in support of a
long time family friend, Carole F, and fellow Team Wannabe Riders Against Cancer teammate, Natalie O. I will riding be memory of my Uncle Harry, Aunt Denny, and close friend Judy O.

Thanks for taking the time to read this post. I do appreciate the support.