Well, today didn't go as planned. I hoped to add another 12 km to bring my total up to 189. Then one final ride (weather permitting) to finish off the month with 200 km--twice my original goal.
Instead, my "distance" bike wanted some time off and decided to have a flat tire. :(
Well, the elderly mountain bike hasn't seen much use this month, so it got called into service and carried me happily through another 6.5 km.
Now I don't know if I'll make that 200 total but at least I'll be close.
While I was riding I thought again of all the ups and downs that families go through when a child has cancer. Knowing that what I do can help is what motivates me to keep going.
After achieving my cycling goal last week I took some time off to catch up on errands. I still managed another 21 km though! Another few rides before the end of August and I should reach 200 km -- twice my original goal!
It's starting to feel like the end of summer. After weeks of trying to avoid the hot weather I was glad I'd worn a jacket this morning.
As I rode today I thought about GCC Ambassador Chloe. In 2025 the small pimple-like bump in her mouth was diagnosed as cancer. Over the last year this resilient girl has undergone chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. She is cheering on the GCC riders in our riding and fundraising challenges.
Yesterday I achieved my ride goal! I had a delightful 18 km ride along my favourite trail which was shaded and quiet in the late morning. I stopped at a small beach for a short break. Just a lovely morning, and i felt happy in the thought that I was fulfilling goals for an important cause.
And thanks to all my wonderful supporters my donation total is nearing $4000.
I'm really pleased with my progress towards my 152 km ride goal, and I'm absolutely thrilled that so many of my family, friends, and colleagues have donated to support the fight against kids' cancers.
My original fundraising goal was $1500. I increased that goal to $2500, and have now received almost $4000 in donations! Thanks to all who have donated!
I have found a bike route that I now use regularly. It's about 10 km and covers a range of things to see--two rivers, a marina, a beach, an old-growth forest, and a rail trail. Here's a picture of me at the entrance the old-growth forest. This is a cool and quiet place to be on a hot day.
