I rode the AIDS Lifecycle in 2005. I went into it as a recreational cyclist, looking for a respectable challenge. I’d never toured or ridden that many miles, but wasn’t too worried about it. I raised far more than the minimum, but it was still the riding that was key in my mind.

That changed. That changed more than I ever thought it would.

I still tell people that those 7 days on the bike were the most intense and amazing physical, spiritual, and emotional journey I’ve ever done. Heck, I’m starting to cry again now just remembering it.

I’ll do it again someday, even though I’m in Washington state now.