Race for a Cure

The ladies association that I (claim) to belong to (when I can make the meeting and functions despite a busy family life) had two bikes in the 2nd annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 12 Hour Ride for a Cure. We split up the times and I rode the first hour of the event. Many teams spit up the event like this but there were about a half dozen that were riding the whole 12 hours - including the founder and super mom, Monica, who's little boy was diagnosed with type I diabetes at 21 months old.

It was a great event! I was really impressed at how well put together it was for only the second year. Sign in was easy and everything was really organized...since it could have easily been an overwhelming mess because it was so huge. I can't remember how many participants she said there were but it was an amazing number, with huge donations made by many of the big Collin County companies, like Frito Lay, Sam's Club, and Nestle Waters just to name a few. It would be awesome to someday have a bigger part in efforts like that - like a big hands on part. I wish I could really get involved in more fundraising activities that make a difference in people's lives.

I guess I was so surprised at the hugeness of it all because after meeting Monica and seeing how humble and normal she is, I just didn't expect it to be that big of an event. Frisco Athletic Center seeked her out to host it. There was one room, like a hospitality room. full of food and drinks, massage tables, fruit, etc. for the participants, then in the cycling room there was a DJ and an audio visual extravaganza with projectors showing videos to help pass the time. Monica teaches spin class so she was at the head of the room with her mic on telling us about diabetes, providing funny anecdotes and keeping morale up. It was really fun! I only wish I could have ridden longer than an hour....BUT....I had Summer's baby shower to go to so not only did I have to jet out without enjoying the hospitality room but I chose not to really get after it on the bike because I was trying not to sweat!! I know, crazy...but I seriously had to go straight to the baby shower so I just couldn't give it my all. So I was bummed about that. But I am pretty psyched to get started in a spin class at the YMCA!

All along the hallway where we signed in were posters made by kiddos who have diabetes explaining what it's like for them and what they have to do to stay alive. They thanked us for riding to help find a cure and it was really inspirational. My bike was right behind a boy who was probably about 9 or 10 who has diabetes and he was just pedaling away with us. Once or twice when I caught myself watching the clock counting down the minutes, all I had to do was glance at him to remind myself how great this cause is. He was really cute!

Many people decorated their bikes with balloons and streamers, had air horns and clappers, and all kinds of fun stuff. I wish I would have thought of that!! Next year I will! Maybe I can talk enough of YOU into it to get a team of my own with YOU guys! I was so pleased at everyone who donated to sponsor me and I made $171 for the cause! Thanks so much to everyone who helped with that...it means so much to me. The total came in at $118,000.00!!! I know Monica and the folks at JDRF still can't believe how this event has taken a life of it's own. I definitely look forward to helping again and riding next year.