Profile

About: Why is it that I always have the hardest time describing myself? It shouldn't be that difficult, but the truth of the matter is, I just spent a good two hours writing and then proceeding to delete my entire biography. I guess that should tell you quite a lot about who I am. While the word perfectionist is used all too much, I would have to describe myself as a fastidious person.

While I wouldn't describe myself as an extrovert, I do enjoy hanging out with others. I say that I am not an extrovert because I need my quiet time. I need space to breath and room to think. It is essential that I have time to reflect and time to process the events of my day.

I also have a passion for music, but not the typical genres of music. I enjoy jazz and classical. This may seem a little strange for someone my age, but I guess I can blame it on all of the years I spent in band.

I definitely have a love/hate relationship with school. I spend way too many hours in libraries. If I am not in a library studying, which is a very rare occasion, then I can be found rock climbing, cycling, or even trying to explore Austin.

While I am absolutely positive that there is more I could write, another phrase I could tweak, or maybe even a nugget of truth I could tell, I am going to conclude my "About Me" right here.

Why I Ride

Growing up, I always longed for the relationship that only grandparents can provide. I wished for a grandpa who would take me on the traditional fishing trip, a grandpa who would share his life experiences and wisdom with me when I was struggling with the pressures of school, girls, and life. But most of all, I wanted a grandpa who would shape my understanding of what it means to be a man. I also desired a grandma who would bake delicious, melt in your mouth, chocolate chip cookies. I wanted a grandma I could run to after I scraped my knee on the playground, a grandma who would patch me up and sooth my fears. But most of all, I wanted a grandma who would continually affirm and encourage me as I travelled down the difficult roads of life. While I still have fond memories of my grandma, Mimi, she passed away from metastatic breast cancer when I was only three years old. She was my last living grandparent. Cancer has been the common factor behind the death of all four of my grandparents.

Texas 4000 is so much more than just a charity ride to Alaska. It is a commitment that pays homage and due respect to those who have fought and those who are still fighting. It is a sign and symbol of hope for all of those who are currently enduring the pain, fear, and anxiety of cancer. It is a ride that continually shows humanity that we live for something greater…that amidst a world of such sorrow and pain, there is hope for a brighter tomorrow…a hope that is fueled by the persistent determination of scientists in the medical community…scientists who are actively fighting in the search for a cure to save lives.

Texas 4000 is not just an organization; it is a cause. And it is a cause worth fighting for. I want to ride because a cure needs to be found. I want to ride because I want to push myself to the limit. I want to experience the pain. I want to make it to Alaska and know that we achieved something great, that we went beyond boundaries…that we achieved something that will set forth an example and change people’s lives forever…something that will impact the lives and souls of those who are suffering, or who have suffered the loss of someone they love. I know every day will be a tremendous test of my will to fight, but I also know that overcoming these challenges will help us to get one step closer to kicking cancer in the butt. I am determined to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer, for those who have passed and for those who fervently fight to overcome.

Finally, I believe in the mission of Texas 4000. Texas 4000 stands as a symbol for the perseverance and endurance those with this disease exhibit every day on their journey and fight.

Hope will endure. We must never cease to believe.