team.apocalypse ...when you ride through hell, just keep riding
I decided to ride after seeing Death off on what was then called the Aids Ride. It seemed exciting, the people were friendly, and I couldn't even begin to fathom the challenge of it all.
So being the stubborn girl I am I went for it on both ALC1 and ALC2. ALC3 saw me sitting out to take care of Deaths spawn so he could make the magic happen.
This journey was the biggest accomplishment in my life. Everyday on the ride brings new inspiration, new hope, and new friendships. I am blessed to be surrounded by some of the most compassionate, loyal, dedicated team mates anywhere who are there for me on and off the ride.
After a talk with Famine at ALC2 I thought I would try to crew. While I love being in the saddle my knees aren't always so happy about the journey. This year with six months of unemployment under my belt, a move into a new apartment, and a handful of other major life changes I didn't think I would participate and I let it slip to the back of my mind.
Then the email came. Stephanie and Ruby needed a fifth for their water stop team and wanted me. My heart knew what my brain didn't and that was that I had to be with my team and participate in Aids Lifecycle again. I signed up officially about 2 minutes after receiving the email.
In previous years I rode for Dan, Gunnar, and Ben. Three people whom I love dearly and who are all suffering with this disease. I still particpate in their honor. But this year I also participate for Jimmy. I never had the opportunity to meet Jimmy before he passed away but his soul sings out loud and clear through Famine, who has been and still is my guiding light on this journey.