My dad lost his battle with leukemia in 2013. He was an avid cyclist, and one of my fondest memories is watching him complete a Red Ribbon Ride. I remember being so proud of him, and I don't think I fully realized at the time just how much his strength, determination, and resilience would shape the person I'd become.
This year has been one of the most challenging and transformative years of my life. I've found myself doing things that scare the crap out of me, stepping outside my comfort zone, and learning just how strong I really am. And through it all, I've been reminded so much of my dad. He was one of my biggest inspirations, and I like to think that some of the resilience I've discovered in myself is something I learned from watching him face his own challenges with courage and determination.
So, I'm taking on America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride in Lake Tahoe in his memory. I'm starting from ground zero (and I mean ZERO cycling experience!), but if this year has taught me anything, it's that we're far more resilient than we realize. Sometimes we don't know what we're capable of until we're faced with something that challenges us.
There's something really special about choosing to do something difficult in honor of someone who taught you what strength looks like. I know this won't be easy, but I'm excited to challenge myself, celebrate a sport my dad loved, and carry a little piece of him with me through every mile.
I think he'd be pretty proud. I know I'm proud to be his daughter.
Nichole
Family member and supporter
