Joe's Ride

Rupa and I got a chance to take part in an event called Joe's Ride and Stride. It was on May 20^th 2017 at Oakdale Emory Church in Olney MD. This event was organized to remember and celebrate the lives of those who passed away due to cancer, and to support those who are currently fighting cancer. The event included 10K, 30K and 45K bike rides. It also had a 5K walk.

I took part in the 30K bike ride. It was a beautiful ride. It started at 7.00 AM at Oakdale Emory Church in Olney MD, passed through scenic and lush green surrounding areas and finished back at the church. An ideal temperature of 63 made the ride a pleasure and fun. There were some winding roads and some small climbs but mostly flat. My smartphone app showed an elevation gain of 1075 feet over the distance on 30K, making it an easy ride. I am sure I will take part in 45K next year!

But it was the organization of the event that made the ride more pleasurable. More than few hundred participants took part in the bike rides as well as walks. There were volunteers throughout the bike route to guide and cheer the riders. Some were standing at various intersections to make sure that we don’t take a wrong turn. Some were at the rest stops with water and fruit to keep our energy level up. And of course to greet and cheer and welcome us at the finish line. Lots of food and music at the church. All credit goes to Russ and Betsy Sanford, and Oakdale Emory Church for organizing this event for such a great and worthy cause.

Cancer detection, prevention and cure is very close to my heart. Like most of you, I have personally seen and experienced my close friends and family members succumb to this dreadful disease, but not without a courageous and brave fight. And they are the true fighters! The fight against cancer is full of emotions. It is like a roller-coaster ride. Initial shock of cancer diagnosis just makes your spine shiver and heart stop. Then there is treatment regimen that goes through cycles of chemo and may be surgery. One day there is hope and the next day it may dwindle. I can't even fathom what they go through during this fight. Just salute to those who are fighting this battle and salute to those who are supporting the fighters. 

Let's hope cure for cancer is not too far. In the meantime, do support this fight and the fighters.

For more information on Joe's ride, visit http://joesanford.com/