Vote for Prop 15!!!

LIVESTRONG Challenge 2007

LIVESTRONG Day 2007!

Found a few pics....

I have been trying to put together a little banner or flyer to put on my bike when I ride on Sunday, and I came across a few pictures of my mom that I really like. I thought I would share them!

Last Day for Donations!

All....

Today is the last day for donations, according to the LAF site, I need to have all my money in by 0900 cst 11 October 2007. That means... DONATE NOW!!!!!!!

No more rides before the 14th!

I turned my bike in to the shop for an overhaul last night. This means only one thing, if I can't do this ride by now, there's no chance for additional training. The ol' ride needs some work though, so this will benefit not only the well being of my bike, but me as well. Hopefully when I'm cranking away on the pedals come next Sunday, the chain will not fall off and my gears will not slip. (which has been happening lately) She's a bit dirty too. Part of the ride I did this past Monday was on gravel. That old ranch road in Medina wasn't paved for a few miles and I wish I would had been on a mountain bike with shocks and knobby tires. So, all that said, come next week, I'll get her back with shiny components, a new chain, and a good washin'. Amen....

7 days left!

Well, 7 days until all the money is due, and 10 days before I meet my maker on those hills in central Texas. I was fortunate enough to be able to experience those hills on Sunday and Monday of this week. I got 2 really good rides in this week. I rode out near Bandera and Medina, Texas. The beauty of that area is too much to put in words. Anyway... please please please, if you have made the commitment to donate, its time to do so! Go here to donate, it's much easier to get online and donate then to send in a check!

Donations...

Isn't this great, I received and email from he LAF yesterday about making contributions, just as I was going to send out another reminder to everyone that I only have 2 weeks left to have all my money in for the Ride of the Roses! OCTOBER 11 is coming very quickly! I have been steadily training for the upcoming ride, and I am finally feeling comfortable with the thought of this long ride. Last weekend 3 of us ventured up to Huntsville for the Raven Ride. What a beautiful area, although riding through the state park up there was a bit bumpy! They seriously need to redo the road through the park, you need a mountain bike to handle the craters. This weekend I'm heading out to Bandera, Tx for an outing for work. Fortunately for me, the roads are great for cycling, and the scenery is AMAZING. I'll be able to get in a few early morning rides with a few colleagues that also enjoy cycling. I can't wait....

Anyway... here's the email I received yesterday about the LAF donations....

It is so exciting to me every day to unite with citizens, cancer survivors, organizations and leaders across the country to write a history for our generation that does not include cancer.
Thirty years since President Nixon declared war on cancer, the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the LIVESTRONG Army are securing real commitments and advancements to eliminate cancer as the number one killer of Americans under 85.

Together, we are taking bold and historic steps. But our voices alone aren't enough. We need your financial support to help change the course of cancer in our country.

Your donation today will help the Lance Armstrong Foundation continue our research and community grants, cancer support services and public policy programs that are closing the gaps between what we know and what we do about cancer, including:

• Making cancer a national priority among elected officials.
• Hosting the historic LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum to renew national leadership in fighting cancer.
• Promoting legislation to increase access to screenings, make screenings available earlier and develop screenings for other types of cancer.
• Delivering direct cancer support services to people affected by cancer through the LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare network.
• Investing $28.9 million last year alone in cancer survivorship programs and initiatives to make cancer a national priority.

We know that 1/3 of all cancer deaths could be prevented. That means that 500 lives would be spared today, 3,500 this week and 182,000 lives this year alone. We also know that early screenings for cancers such as prostate and skin cancers will decrease diagnosis and mortality rates. Despite this knowledge, 560,000 people will die in 2007 from cancer. 182,000 of those will die needlessly because they didn't have access to screenings and the right kind of treatments.
We can no longer sit back and allow people to die needlessly. We face a historic opportunity—but only if we unite with a singular goal of getting rid of cancer forever.
Please unite with the Lance Armstrong Foundation with a tax-deductible donation.

Together we can make history.
LIVESTRONG,
Doug Ulman
President, Lance Armstrong Foundation

Three More Weeks...

I have 3 more weeks before all donations have to be in and counted. This gives me 3 more weeks to raise as much money as possible for the LAF! At the moment, I'm hovering at $11,345, which I must say is one hell of a response from everyone. I honestly didn't think I would get over $10,000 when I first started the blog and decided to do this ride. So, for all of you that have committed to donating, but still haven't sent anything in, please do so as soon as possible. I'm counting on you all to help me fight this disease! In addition to the ride on Sunday 14 October, I'm doing the 5k run/walk on the Saturday before as a little extra event. I'm not a runner, so its more then likely that I'll walk the 5k. Don't forget to donate!!!

As for my continuing training.... I'll be doing the Raven Ride 61 mile route in Huntsville, Tx this Saturday. For those of you that are local and want to join, it starts at 0800. Follow the link for more information and directions to the starting sight.

Cycling News....

Arbitrators find Landis guilty of doping, rule he must forfeit 2006 Tour title

By EDDIE PELLS, AP National WriterSeptember 20, 2007

AP - Sep 20, 1:36 pm EDT

PARIS (AP) -- Floyd Landis lost his expensive and explosive doping case Thursday when arbitrators upheld the results of a test that showed the 2006 Tour de France champion used synthetic testosterone to fuel his spectacular comeback victory, The Associated Press has learned.

The decision means Landis, who repeatedly has denied using performance-enhancing drugs, must forfeit his Tour de France title and is subject to a two-year ban, retroactive to Jan. 30, 2007.

The ruling, handed down nearly four months after a bizarre and bitterly fought hearing, leaves the American with one final way to possibly salvage his title -- an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

If Landis doesn't appeal, he'll be the first person in the 105-year history of the race to lose the title because of a doping offense.

According to documents obtained by AP, the vote was 2-1 to uphold the results, with lead arbitrator Patrice Brunet and Richard McLaren in the majority and Christopher Campbell dissenting.

"Today's ruling is a victory for all clean athletes and everyone who values fair and honest competition," U.S. Anti-Doping Agency CEO Travis Tygart said.

It's a devastating loss for Landis, who has steadfastly insisted that cheating went against everything he was all about and said he was merely a pawn in the anti-doping system's all-consuming effort to find cheaters and keep money flowing to its labs and agencies.

Landis didn't hide from the scrutiny -- invited it, in fact -- and now has been found guilty by the closest thing to a fair trial any accused athlete will get.

Landis, who has a month to file his appeal, is still weighing his legal options, according to a statement released by his legal team.

"This ruling is a blow to athletes and cyclists everywhere" Landis said. "For the Panel to find in favor of USADA when, with respect to so many issues, USADA did not manage to prove even the most basic parts of their case shows that this system is fundamentally flawed. I am innocent, and we proved I am innocent."

Despite the result, it's hard to see this as a total victory for the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, which prosecuted the case. This was a costly affair for the agency, and it exposed flaws in the system.

In its 84-page decision, the majority found the initial screening test to measure Landis' testosterone levels -- the testosterone-to-epitestosterone test -- was not done according to World Anti-Doping Agency rules.

But the more precise and expensive carbon-isotope ration analysis (IRMS), performed after a positive T-E test is recorded, was accurate, the arbitrators said, meaning "an anti-doping rule violation is established."

"As has been held in several cases, even where the T-E ratio has been held to be unreliable ... the IRMS analysis may still be applied," the majority wrote. "It has also been held that the IRMS analysis may stand alone as the basis" of a positive test for steroids.

The decision comes more than a year after Landis' stunning comeback in Stage 17 of the 2006 Tour, one that many people said couldn't be done without some kind of outside help. Flying to the lead near the start of a grueling Alpine stage, Landis regained nearly eight minutes against the leader, and went on to win the three-week race.

"Well, all I can say is that justice has been done, and that this is what the UCI felt was correct all along," Pat McQuaid, leader of cycling's world governing body, told The Associated Press by telephone. "We now await and see if he does appeal to CAS.

"It's not a great surprise considering how events have evolved. He got a highly qualified legal team who tried to baffle everybody with science and public relations. And in the end the facts stood up."

Spanish rider Oscar Pereiro, who finished second to Landis in the 2006 Tour, said he hadn't officially heard the news yet.

"You never want to win a competition like that," he said. "But after a year and a half of all of this I'm just glad it's over."

Landis insisted on a public hearing not only to prove his innocence, but to shine a spotlight on USADA and the rules it enforces and also establish a pattern of incompetence at the French lab where his urine was tested.

Although the panel rejected Landis' argument of a "conspiracy" at the Chatenay-Malabry lab, it did find areas of concern. They dealt with chain of command in controlling the urine sample, the way the tests were run on the machine, the way the machine was prepared and the "forensic corrections" done on the lab paperwork.

"... the Panel finds that the practises of the Lab in training its employees appears to lack the vigor the Panel would expect in the circumstances given the enormous consequences to athletes" of an adverse analytical finding, the decision said.

The majority repeatedly wrote that any mistakes made at the lab were not enough to dismiss the positive test, but also sent a warning.

"If such practises continue, it may well be that in the future, an error like this could result in the dismissal" of a positive finding by the lab.

In Campbell's opinion, Landis' case should have been one of those cases.
"In many instances, Mr. Landis sustained his burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt," Campbell wrote. "The documents supplied by LNDD are so filled with errors that they do not support an Adverse Analytical Finding. Mr. Landis should be found innocent."

And in at least one respect, Landis, who spent an estimated $2 million on his defense, was exonerated because the panel dismissed the T-E test. But in the arbitration process, a procedural flaw in the first test doesn't negate a positive result in follow-up tests.

"An arbitration panel is entitled to rely entirely on the IRMS analysis as an independent and sufficient basis for finding that an anti-doping rule violation has occurred," the decision said.
In his dissent, Campbell latched onto the T-E ratio test, among other things, as proof that the French lab couldn't be trusted.

"Also, the T-E ratio test is acknowledged as a simple test to run. The IRMS test is universally acknowledged as a very complicated test to run, requiring much skill. If the LNDD couldn't get the T-E ratio test right, how can a person have any confidence that LNDD got the much more complicated IRMS test correct?"

It was confusion like this that led to the system receiving the harsh review Landis was hoping for during a nine-day hearing in Malibu, Calif., in May.

But Landis also took his share of abuse, and ultimately, USADA still improved to 35-0 in cases it has brought before arbitration panels since it was founded in 2000.

This was a nasty contest waged on both sides, with USADA attorneys going after Landis' character and taking liberties in evidence discovery that wouldn't be permitted in a regular court of law. And Landis accused USADA of using a win-at-all-costs strategy and prosecuting him only to get him to turn on seven-time winner Lance Armstrong, who has long fought doping allegations that have never been proven.

Addressing "problematic behavior on the part of both parties," the panel wrote it would not revisit the conduct of either side.

"They are just part of the litigation war games the parties counsel engaged in between themselves," the decision said.

More than the complex, turgid scientific evidence, the hearing will be remembered for the Greg LeMond brouhaha.

The hearing turned into a soap opera when the former Tour de France winner showed up and told of being sexually abused as a child, confiding that to Landis, then receiving a call from Landis' manager the night before his testimony threatening to disclose LeMond's secret to the world if LeMond showed up.

LeMond not only showed up, he also claimed Landis had admitted to him that he doped. That was the only aspect of the LeMond testimony the panel cared about.

"The panel concludes that the respondent's comment to Mr. LeMond did not amount to an admission of guilt or doping," the majority wrote.

This year's Tour began without the official defending champion, and the traditional "No. 1" jersey wasn't handed out when the race began in London. It only got worse as doping allegations and suspicions devastated the 2007 Tour. Three riders, including former overall leader Michael Rasmussen, and two teams were expelled during the three-week race.
At 31, Landis has vowed he hadn't given up on cycling -- he raced in small, nonsanctioned events in Colorado this summer -- even hoping to some day wear the yellow jersey again.

Updated on Thursday, Sep 20, 2007 2:43 pm, EDT

Today I'm in Connecticut. I flew up last night for a quick trip, and will be heading back tomorrow. I did get a good workout in this morning, but no cycling, obviously. I have been very alarmed today on two separate occasions. I found out today that 2 more people I know have been either diagnosed or have been affected by a relapse. The second one especially took me by surprise. I nearly burst in tears when I was told and in fact, I’m having a bit of trouble keeping composure while typing this in the hotel lobby. That said, I think I will keep this entry short. I’m devastated and I have to meet some people in about 30 minutes for dinner; don’t want to be all puffy-eyed. My prayers go out to the families and close friends of these people.

Massive Donation made to a local hospital...

I was just sent this article... a good read!


McNair, wife to donate $100 million to medical school
Associated Press
Updated: September 12, 2007, 1:31 PM ET

HOUSTON -- Houston Texans owner Robert McNair and his wife are giving $100 million to the Baylor College of Medicine, according to a newspaper report.

The gift equals the largest donation ever made to the school, the Houston Chronicle reported in Wednesday editions.

The funds, made through the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, will fund research into breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, juvenile diabetes and the neurosciences.

"We're pleased to be able to do this," McNair, a Baylor trustee, said Tuesday. "I hope it has a significant impact on not just Baylor and researchers throughout the Texas Medical Center but people in Houston and everywhere who suffer from these diseases."

Baylor officials were scheduled to announce the gift Wednesday.

The donation comes about a year and a half after Baylor trustee and energy magnate Dan Duncan gave Baylor $100 million for its cancer center. The two gifts are the largest ever given to facilities in Houston's Texas Medical Center.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

Luciano Pavarotti 1935-2007

Luciano Pavarotti died this past week. It’s been all over the news. He was a legend in music world having a celebrated tenor voice. It has taken me a little while to be able to write about this mainly because he died of pancreatic cancer, and if anyone has been paying attention to my blog, pancreatic cancer is a bit of a tough subject for me to discuss. I wish really that the news programs would have concentrated more on his life in music then on the fact that he died of this disease. I’m sure many would have rather listened to him sing rather then listening to a reporter repeat statistics of how many people a year die of pancreatic cancer, or how horrible a cancer it is to treat and live with. Most do not survive this cancer. Pavorotti lasted 14 months after diagnosis, he did well relatively speaking. Mom lasted 3 ½ weeks. In my hotel room last Thursday morning watching CNN report on the death of Pavarotti, I was once again smacked in the face with a reminder of what happened to my mother. Reminded of what I lost, what my family lost, what so many people are dealing with on a daily basis.

Pancreatic cancer statistics are not anything that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Not a good blog topic normally, but after all, this is one of the reasons I’m doing this blog. Sometimes the hard, disturbing truths about cancer are needed to remind us that it affects everyone, everyday and it needs to be dealt with urgently. Pancreatic cancer, or adenocarcinoma of the pancreas is diagnosed each year more then 30,000 times alone in the US. Most of the people who are diagnosed will lose their lives within the first year. The survival rate, if left untreated, is on average about 3 ½ months; and with treatment is approximately 6 months. This is a difficult cancer to catch early. Symptoms are loss of appetite, nausea, pain and discomfort in the abdomen, and weight loss, all of which are not feelings that would ordinarily make you think you have a cancer. People might just feel as if they are coming down with a stomach virus. I know my mother complained for a few weeks of stomach discomfort, but she wrote it off to working too much and not eating properly. She had always had a history of stomach problems anyway. Yellowing of the skin or jaundice is probably the most common physical sign of pancreatic cancer. It is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in men and women, and most likely has the worst median survival period of any cancer. It’s painful too; very, very painful. I have said this before to some of my close friends, in a way, I’m happy that my mother did not have to endure the chemotherapy. I didn’t want her to have to suffer not only the pain from the cancer, but the horrible effects of the drugs being pumped through her system. Those drugs, in all likelihood would have only prolonged her life a few months.

I guess this is enough for one entry. I’m still having issues thinking about what has happened. I would much rather think about what can be done to help find a cure, or be a part of a support system to someone who has survived cancer. I would rather write about a success story. Maybe by being a part of this fundraiser, I’ll be a part of someone’s.

$10,000 and counting!!!!

Well, I have finally done it; I have reached the $10,000 fundraising goal today. I’m so pleased with everyone’s support and encouragement! Thank you Robin for getting me through that number! I do believe I have slacked on the blog entries as of late, but honestly, I have been training. Here’s a quick summary: Sunday, 2 September I rode a flat 54 miles out west of Houston. Thankfully it was overcast, not too hot, good company. I got in a very short jog in Chicago on Thursday morning, and played golf on Friday, (but don’t think golfing counts really). Yesterday, after returning from a few days away, I rode a sponsored ride starting at the Prairie View A&M University campus, 63 miles for the Tour de Pink. This was a Pink Ribbons project fundraiser for breast cancer, this small but lively ride has raised over $225,000 for breast cancer research. Originally, I had intended to ride 80 miles, but I was too late to the start, and by the time I reached the turn off it had been closed. I rode strong for the first ¾ of the ride, keeping pace between 21-23mph, but slacked off the last ¼ due to being tired and having a few mechanical issues. Also, the pouring rain that I had encountered caused me to slow up a bit although the cool rain was very, very refreshing! Final stats for the ride, averaged 18.6mph, burned 2200 calories, and my heart rate average was 157. Not too shabby....

Here are some sponsored rides that I will likely do before my big event October 14th, in combination with my own personal rides with my “teammates.”

Ride the Coast, September 16, (distance uncertain)

The Raven Ride, September 22, 61 miles

Cy-Fair Lion’s Club Bike for Sight, September 30, 62 miles

This one is the weekend after the Ride for the Roses, but looks like it would be fun.
Bike Around the Bay, October 20-21, 170 miles total over 2 days,

One last thing, even though I have reached my goal, I will still be accepting donations up until the deadline set by the LAF. So please continue to forward the links and sending in the contributions. All donations have to be in by October 11, 2007. Let's see how much I can get the final tally too, I'm so very excited about this event!

Presidential campaigning...

Here's the lastest email from the LIVESTRONG Army...

Cancer enters the '08 political race.

Dear Andrea,

Four years ago cancer was not mentioned during the presidential election campaign. Today, the LIVESTRONG Army has made fighting cancer part of the national dialogue. For the next five days leading media, presidential candidates and citizens across the country will discuss how to stop the number one killer of all Americans under the age of 85.

Next Monday, August 27, and Tuesday, August 28, I will walk onto the stage at the U.S. Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to ask the presidential hopefuls to share their ideas and strategies on how to fight cancer in the first-ever LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum. This historic event will be discussed on NBC's Meet the Press with Tim Russert, webcast live on MSNBC.com and featured on Hardball with Chris Matthews.
As a member of the LIVESTRONG Army, I need your help to make sure Americans across the country are tuned in, asking questions and demanding answers from the presidential candidates.

Watch Meet the Press with Tim Russert. I will be a guest on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday, August 26, talking about the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum. Check local listings for times and channels.

Watch the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum. MSNBC will webcast the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum live at 10:00 am CT on August 27 and 28. MSNBC's Hardball with Chris Matthews will be broadcast live from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, each night.
>> Click this link on Monday, August 27, and Tuesday, August 28, to load MSNBC.com's video player to watch the Forum.>> Check MSNBC's local listings for times and channels to view Hardball with Chris Matthews on MSNBC on Monday and Tuesday evening.


Spread the word. Click here to forward this email to friends encouraging them to tune into the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum.

Download and post the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum posters in offices, gyms, coffee shops and other places with high traffic.

The LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum puts critical questions about fighting cancer on a national platform. Please join me in making history by raising awareness for the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum.

Another great story...

I received another link today from my friend Chris. I have posted the Houston Chronicle article in its entirety, but go to the link below to read the rest of the story and see the pictures that have been posted.... Definitely a tear jerker, but its so nice to see people coming together to battle cancer. All the little things really do help!

http://www.coolrunning.com/forums/Forum2/HTML/014506.shtml

Paper: Houston Chronicle
Date: Sun 08/05/2007
Section: Star
Page: 1Edition: 2 STAR

A NEIGHBORHOOD COMES TOGETHER / A COMMUNITY RUNNING ON HOPE
By JEANNIE KEVER Staff

STEPHANIE Johnson has the slim body of a long-distance runner, but that's deceptive. She's no athlete.
When she runs, it's often with her 7-year-old daughter trailing on a scooter. She swims the backstroke so she doesn't have to put her face in the water.
She even rides a Huffy, the ultimate mom-around-the-'hood bike.
But Johnson has inspired her neighbors and, along the way, she's given herself a bit of hope.
Right now, though, she's doing a slow jog on the sidewalks around her house in Spring, daughter Briannah trotting alongside as they talk about the family's new puppy, a 9-week-old chewing machine named Toby.
It hardly seems the stuff from which legacies are made, but that, too, is deceptive.
The Stephanie Johnson Triathlon will involve the entire family: Husband Greg is producing the race, and he'll compete, too, as will Stephanie and their three children: Greyson, 11; Spencer, 9, and Briannah.
They are creating a memory that, in all likelihood, will outlive Stephanie.
"It's been good for us to do something that's bigger than us," Greg Johnson says.
Triathlons have boomed in popularity during the 33 years since the sport began, and the Johnsons' has become something of a neighborhood cause in Gleannloch Farms, a stylish master-planned community off Spring-Cypress Road, designed around baseball fields, parks, swimming pools, a golf course and even an elementary school.
About 70 percent of the people competing in the Aug. 26 race are first-timers.
"You can see people out riding their bikes, and you know that's what they're doing it for," says Connie Santiago, a friend who will do her first triathlon in order to be at Stephanie's side. "People wouldn't be doing this if they didn't know the Johnsons."
But they do know the Johnsons, and they also know the story behind the triathlon.
A jolt of reality
"We were just very normal. Very average," Stephanie Johnson says of the days when it seemed that normality would last forever. "Kids. Work."
They had busy lives in a Dallas suburb - Greg had started his own company with two partners, and Stephanie had launched a business as a personal organizer - but both were careful planners, and things were unfolding just as they intended.
That changed in February 2004, when Stephanie began to have trouble swallowing. Her doctor suspected gastric reflux but ran more tests just to be sure.
Ten days later, the Johnsons had an answer.
Stephanie had stomach cancer, a disease most commonly diagnosed in people older than 65. She was 35.
Within a month, she was recovering from surgery to remove her stomach and part of her esophagus, along with 19 lymph nodes. She had four months of chemotherapy and radiation, treatments so debilitating that she spent most of her time in bed.
By the end of the year, her cancer was in remission and she was once more able to spend time with her husband and children, although she had to give up her business.
The Johnsons lived in Frisco; their earlier plans to move near Greg's business partners in Houston had been put on hold while she was treated at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. But when doctors there said they would refer her to Houston's University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center if the disease recurred - M.D. Anderson enrolls more patients in clinical trials than any other cancer program in the United States - the family headed south.
They arrived in Spring in March 2005, while Johnson's cancer remained in remission.
A routine scan five months later detected spots on her lung, and doctors later confirmed a recurrence, classified an incurable Stage IV cancer.
Johnson has exhausted conventional treatments, and doctors now hope to prolong her life and keep her symptoms from disrupting daily activities, says Jaffer Ajani, professor of gastrointestinal medical oncology at M.D. Anderson.
She is enrolled in her fourth clinical trial - one drug seemed to work for about nine months; two others apparently did not - and will find out later this month whether the latest, a drug made by Merck Pharmaceuticals known as MK-2461, has helped.
Ajani says it is "not impossible" that an experimental drug will prolong her life significantly. The odds, however, aren't good. The American Cancer Society says the five-year survival rate for people with Stage IV stomach cancer is just 3 percent.
"I think she's surpassed the odds anyway," Ajani says. "In that way, she has benefited from the previous therapy, but that is not enough."
Until the late 1930s, stomach cancer was the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but the number of diagnosed cases dropped dramatically over the next 70 years. Researchers link the drop to people eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and fewer salted and smoked foods, along with the increased use of antibiotics, which can kill the Helicobacter pylori bacteria suspected as another cause.
Current research focuses on turning the cancer into a chronic illness that can be managed much as diabetes or high blood pressure is, Ajani says.
Through all of these treatments, the Johnsons, who met at Louisiana Tech University and married after graduation in 1990, have been sure of a couple of things.
First, cancer drew them closer as a couple and taught them to be spontaneous. "We try to treasure everything we're doing," says Johnson, who is now 38.
She updated the family scrapbooks and considered making a video in case she doesn't live to see her children grow up.
That wasn't her style, but she didn't want the milestones - a 16th birthday, prom night, graduation - to pass without her. Instead, she has written letters to each child, filled with her memories of their early lives and her hopes and advice for their futures.
The children know cancer can kill, but for now the Johnsons try not to dwell on her prognosis.
"Nobody knows when their time is," she tells her children.
The second thing the Johnsons knew was, they were not jocks.
A cause to rally around
At least, they didn't used to be.
But life in limbo is almost unbearably stressful, and a friend suggested Greg Johnson join him at a triathlon last year just for fun.
He loved it.
Triathlons give weekend athletes a tremendous sense of accomplishment, says Andy Stewart, owner of Finish Line Sports in Sugar Land.
"In the beginning, people see it as almost undoable," he says. Would-be triathletes think of the Ironman - a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride and 26.2-mile run - and not the more-common shorter distances.
"When first-timers come across the finish line, they're generally hooked." Stewart says.
He sponsors the Try Andy's Tri in October, drawing 750 people to Sugar Land, but says the shorter distances of the Stephanie Johnson Triathlon - a 200-yard swim, six-mile bike ride and two-mile run - make it a perfect introduction to the sport.
Most participants will be first-timers, and more than half will be women. That mirrors the surging number of women triathletes of the past decade, something Stewart attributes in part to women-only events such as the Danskin series, which launched in 1990.
"The camaraderie of the women's events takes away the fear factor," he says. "They really encourage each other."
The Johnson triathlon is all about encouragement, drawing people through personal connection and support for the cause.
Greg Johnson says they hope to raise $40,000, to be given to M.D. Anderson for research and as stipends to cover incidental expenses for six families battling cancer.
"I figure if Stephanie can do it, I can do it," says Santiago, a stay-at-home mom whose husband, Jerry, also will participate.
Santiago is no athlete - at one point, she considered trying to swim using only her arms, in order to save her leg strength for the cycling and running portions.
Needless to say, she does not expect to win.
"My goal is to not come in last."
Rebecca McGarr is more ambitious.
She runs regularly and has ridden in the MS 150, although this is her first triathlon.
"I wanted to do something with my husband, so I signed us up," she says. "I didn't even ask him."
McGarr, 33, says her only concern is the swimming.
"That's harder to train for, particularly with all the rain," she says. "But I'm a tall person, so if worst comes to worst, I'm just going to put my feet down and walk."
After all, there's a dinner riding on it: McGarr, who works in human resources for Shell Oil Co., challenged friends who also live in Gleannloch Farms to "a neighborly duel."
She doesn't know the Johnsons, but she thought the triathlon would be a fun way to support a worthy cause.
For Johnson's closest friends, the race is more personal.
"Every time I'm exerting myself, I feel like not only am I helping with cancer research, but my body is getting stronger," says Alice Vance, who met Johnson when their sons became friends. "Watching Stephanie go through her treatments, I knew I needed to do everything I could to keep myself healthy."
Vance's husband, Mark, will volunteer at the race, and her children, Maverick, who is 11, Grayson, 10 and Nicole, 8, will compete.
Vance, 35 and a stay-at-home mom, feels changed by the challenge. More than that, she has seen Johnson change.
"I noticed about nine months ago that she started not having as much hope," Vance says. "And since this triathlon, her head's been higher. She feels stronger. You can tell there's a difference in her spirit."
A means to achieve a goal
Johnson herself is reserved, reluctant to share her most personal secrets with strangers. But she agrees that the training has given her a goal.
Eating is a struggle, and Johnson can consume only small amounts of food at a time. Fearful of burning too many calories, she had tried to avoid aerobic activities.
Now she's running, biking and swimming, determined to enjoy this period of relatively good health while the growths on her lung have not affected her breathing.
Her husband, meanwhile, is working out more than ever, preparing not only for this race but a half-Ironman in October.
"Training is my sanity," he says.
For Stephanie, it may be even more important.
"She sees that this may be the ticket," he says. "It's given her a lot of hope, getting healthier, getting physically stronger."
The triathlon is about hope, as well as making memories.
"If the doctors are right and she's got another year, we're going to cherish this," Greg Johnson says. "And even if she has more time, we're still going to cherish it."
STEPHANIE JOHNSON TRIATHLON
When: 7 a.m. Aug. 26
Where: Gleannloch Farms Competition Pool, 19828 Gleannbury Pointe Drive, Spring
Main sponsor: Tomball Cancer Hospital
Volunteer: Registration for athletes is complete, but volunteers are needed
Proceeds: University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center for research and individual grants to families fighting cancer
More information: www.signmeup.com/57370
Also check out: www.youngcancerspouses.org, an on-line support group for people whose spouses have been diagnosed with cancer at a young age. Greg Johnson is a board member.

TDF attacks....

Call him what you will, but this is a good example of how much of a bad ass Lance Armstrong really is when he's riding. Its such a shame that procycling has developed a horrible image in so many eyes. I love this sport.

Chappell Hill Pictures Part 2:

Hangin' out following the ride...

Below: leaving the State park, and a few friends along the way...

Chappell Hill Pictures Part 1:

I had a great ride yesterday, and I remembered to bring the camera and food for snacking afterward! The weather was much much cooler then the previous Sunday, but it was a little bit more windy. I think after the heat that we dealt with the previous week, I welcomed the wind, even if it was blowing straight at me.

"Ironman" Haycraft getting ready 0645 Sunday morning!

Gomez, always smiling even though he knows the pain he will experience very shortly....

Here we are, waiting for the others to arrive...

"Refueling" at the state park, Haycraft decided he was too fast for the rest of us, and I'm sure at the point when we arrived here, he was already finished....

On the way to the half way point, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park....

I took a bunch more and I will post them tomorrow. I have an affection for cows, they have really cute faces. So, there will be cow pictures, and more country side pictures, and some of us stuffing our faces afterward. I have kept the pictures of people small... well, because the pictures of the outdoors turned out better!

I have a grand total of... (get ready).... $9545 raised, it's not reflected to the right, because I still have a few checks that need to clear. I am sooooooooo close to reaching my goal of $10000. I just need a few more donations. Maybe by the end of this week, I can reach the total. Don't be shy.... donate donate donate!

Another hilly ride....

Well, the weather report for Sunday in Chappell Hill is much cooler then last Sunday! We are also expecting scattered showers. You know what that means??? CLOUDS = SHADE! The group is once again meeting on Sunday morning, but we are starting 30 minutes earlier. I was a bad organizer last weekend, I promised to bring sandwiches for following the ride, and forgot. So this week, I have to pony up and feed the boys. We will have few newbies to the group this week too, yippee! One, more thing... I will bring my camera, so guys... wear your favorite jersey!

Rain rain and more rain!

Well, Houston is getting pelted by Tropical Storm Erin at the moment. I’m sitting at my desk, we’re having email problems and I’m looking out my window to see zero visibility. I can barely see the building next to us, and it looks like its night time. I thought about riding this afternoon when I got home from work, doubt that will happen. I hope that this other hurricane misses the US Gulf Coast all together! Memories of Katrina are still too fresh, and anytime there’s a storm in the gulf I get twitchy; plus, it will mess with my training! How am I to ride on the weekends with hurricane force winds and rain? Though, that might be better then riding in the heat.....

Can this be done on a bicycle???

Sunday ride update...

Yesterday was HOT, damn HOT! The paper this morning reported that the temp was 102 degrees, with a heat index of 112 degrees. Now, even in the morning, it was hot. I’m sure these temperatures were the highs for the day, and I’m sure we were not riding with it feeling quite like that, but it was close, I promise you. We started at 0730 as I mentioned in the blog from Friday, and we were all off to a decent start. I did have my legs with me yesterday, unlike last weekend and I felt pretty darn good for the most part. I did sweat my backside off and consumed tons of water and ‘Gu.’ About 7 miles from the end, one of the riders cramped up really bad. It’s just a reminder that even the most seasoned riders have issues in the heat; it’s nothing to take lightly! I did ride better then last week, I finished the 41 mile route 45 minutes faster then last week even though it was hotter outside.

Following the ride, we were all sitting around complaining about the heat (of course). Everyone has their own methods to beat the heat, stay hydrated, and prevent cramping. There are all sorts of products out there to keep you going, salt and electrolyte tablets, gu packs, little fizzy tablets you drop in your water, water and more water... I could go on forever. One guy even mentioned drinking de-fizzed cola, for the sugar and caffeine. Though, I’m not too sure that’s for heat, more of an energy fix when you’re exhausted. The best way to beat the heat for all practical purposes is to just stay home and in the air conditioning... or go to a friends house with a pool and drink beer all day! But, for those of us that were twisted enough to be out there in the heat we all have our own methods, what works best for us individually. This is what I try to do: 1. drink a bottle of water (16oz) every 30-45 minutes, with some sort of electrolyte replacement, (I liked the HEED, and some of the guys swear by Perpetuem, both of which are made by Hammer nutrition) 2. Eat a Gu every 30-45 minutes rather then every hour in normal temperatures, 3. Lots and lots of sunscreen, 4. Dial back the pace a few notches, 5. Pray that there’s shade along the route, 6. If need be, STOP and take a break, there’s no point in killing yourself on a training ride, and last but not least... 7. Don’t ride with a hangover!

I’m not good with remembering my camera! I really wanted to take some pictures along the ride this time around, but I once again, forgot the camera. It might have been a good thing because instead of posting pictures, I found some links to share of the areas where we rode yesterday. More information, better photography too... take a look below. Plus, we were ‘kindly’ reminded by a local Chappell Hill resident yesterday that the town goes through a lot to keep up the public areas in the town where we park to start our ride. She did tell us that there’s a donation box for us to drop in some cash to help offset the cost to the town. It’s a very good idea, and I know I really appreciate the little area which they have set aside and refurbished. I think maybe she needs to work on her public relations and delivery skills though, she came across as a little rude, but hey, it’s her town. So, if anyone plans to ride out there... take a $5 or a $10 and throw it in the box. It’s the least we can do for using the public facilities that are available and obviously maintained on private money.

http://www.chappellhilltx.com/

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/washington_on_the_brazos/

Remembering Terry Fox; an inspirational cancer story

I received this very inspirational link from a friend this morning... wanted to share with you all!

Enjoy the read...

Ironmanlife: Remembering Terry Fox
Kevin Mackinnon remembers a Canadian Hero

Published on Friday, Aug 10, 2007 at 11:37 AM.

There is nothing quite like the north shore of Lake Superior. During the drive along the Trans Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa (no, that wasn’t a typo), Ontario, you get to enjoy some of the most beautiful vistas this planet can offer.Those beautiful views come at the top of some major climbs with grades that stop the occasional cyclists you see in their tracks. Those cyclists have it easy, though, compared to a Canadian hero who ran along this highway more than 25 years ago … struggling through the Marathon of Hope. His name was Terry Fox and last week we paused during our long drive just outside of Thunder Bay to see the monument that remembers his amazing achievement.

Terry Fox was 18 years old when he had to have his right leg amputated six inches above the knee because of bone cancer. While in the hospital he decided that he would do something to raise awareness and money for cancer research. He decided he would run across Canada. He did more than 3,000 miles of training before he dipped his prosthesis in the Atlantic Ocean in Newfoundland on April 12, 1980 and started running. He had one friend along with him to grab a picture.

Each day he ran a marathon. He ran through the Atlantic Provinces and Quebec. It wasn’t until he hit Ontario that he started to garner any real attention, though. By the time he got to northern Ontario he had become a household name in Canada. There were regular reports on his progress in the newspapers and on television, and the money being raised started to grow. He hit the hills here along the north shore of Lake Superior in the heat of summer. With temperatures banging on 100 degrees Fahrenheit, he did his trademark run/ hop/ skip along the highway each and ever day for 42 km, or 26.2 miles.

I can’t even begin to imagine how difficult his journey was. Grant Darby, a close friend with a similar amputation to Fox’s, was used as a stand in for a recent movie on the Canadian hero. Darby is one of the toughest people I know and it’s hard enough for him to run 10 km in a triathlon (he’s a World Short Course Champion). How Fox ran a marathon day after day for almost six months is a mystery to me.

To give you an idea of how popular Fox became, one day, just outside of where I’m writing this column in Sault Ste. Marie, a spring snapped in Fox’s artificial leg. The local radio station reported on the mishap, and within minutes a welder was on his way along the highway to fix the prosthesis. A few days later people lined the highway to watch him take on the three km hill just outside of Wawa.

There was a huge crowd on hand to see him make another climb outside of Thunder Bay a few weeks later. As they cheered him on, though, those people didn’t know what the doctors in Sault Ste. Marie had tried to tell Fox before he ventured along the beautiful, scenic highway … there was a good chance that his cancer had progressed to his lungs.

A camera crew was waiting along the route, completely unaware that they were getting footage of the last mile of his run. On September 1, 1980, after 143 days and 3,339 miles (5,373 km), Terry Fox had to stop running. Less than a year later he was dead.

Terry Fox probably didn’t even notice how beautiful the scenery he was running through was. A lot like most of us as we fly along the Queen K on our bikes, or scream down to Keene during Ford Ironman USA Lake Placid. There are more than a few Ironman athletes who have raised lots of money through their endeavors (the Janus Charity Challenge has helped raise millions over the last few years). A few minutes at the Terry Fox monument outside Thunder Bay, Ontario, served as a very poignant reminder of what one person can do to make a difference.

Terry Fox started his Marathon of Hope in anonymity. He raised $22 million during his run and since he passed away more than $400 million has been raised in his name through the annual Terry Fox runs that take place across Canada every year.

You can reach Kevin Mackinnon at kevin@ironman.com

WOW!

I'm getting an overwhelming response from everyone! I'm so touched by how supportive everyone has been thus far. Please keep passing the link around, that seems to really be helping.

I'll be riding Saturday and Sunday this weekend. Anyone that wishes to do the Chappell Hill ride on sunday, we will be rolling out at 0730 from the church on Main Street.

It's Time for Answers

I have posted these before, so here we go again. Another email from the LAF and how they are and you can get politically active in the fight against cancer....

How is the next commander-in-chief going to fight the number one killer of Americans under 85?

Dear Andrea,

I am no longer content to let the cancer question go unanswered.

That is why the Lance Armstrong Foundation is hosting the first-ever LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum to make sure our next President knows that Americans across the country expect cancer to be a national priority. In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 27 and 28, we will ask Democratic and Republican presidential candidates to go on the record with their plans to fight cancer.

As a member of the LIVESTRONG Army—and a leader in the fight against cancer—I need you to be part of the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum, demanding answers to the cancer question. Here’s how you can get involved:

Get your tickets. The LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum is open to the public, and tickets are free. Quantities are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Submit your questions. Lance Armstrong and MSNBC Hardball host Chris Matthews will ask candidates questions from the public.

Spread the word. Ask friends and colleagues to sign the LIVESTRONG Army petition to make it clear that our next President must be prepared to answer the cancer question.

As of this week, Democratic candidates Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator John Edwards and Governor Bill Richardson have confirmed their participation for the Democratic LIVESTRONG Presidential Candidate Forum on August 27. Republican candidates Senator Sam Brownback, Governor Mike Huckabee and Governor Tommy Thompson have confirmed their participation in the Republican LIVESTRONG Presidential Candidate Forum on August 28.

The goal is to get rid of this disease forever. The LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum gives all Americans the opportunity to ask the candidates “What's your plan? And where does cancer fit into your policies?"

Together, as the LIVESTRONG Army, we can put an end to cancer.

LIVESTRONG,

Quick update...

Since last Thursday, I have raised $2270 in donations and pledges. This will give me a total of $7620 in donations. I'm so pleased with the overwhelming response and support from everyone so far. I only have $2380 left to reach the mark. I haven't displayed the grand total to the right because some donations are in the form of checks that still need to be posted to the charity site. Anyway, I'm off for a short 30 mile ride this evening on the flat streets of Houston!!! Should be a breeze after last Sunday's ride. So, keep the donations coming in everyone, and I'll keep pedaling away...

Just an aside... Happy birthday to "Ironman" Haycraft! .....

A funny about cycling

Ok, YOUTUBE ROCKS!!!! I have yet another video to share above. This time it’s sort of cycling related. Speaking of cycling, rode with the boys again on Sunday. We did 41 miles out in Chappell Hill, Texas. Man, is it beautiful out there! Vast farms stretching as far as you can see, huge Live Oaks, tons of rolling hills, you cannot beat the beauty of the area. I must remember to take my camera with me this coming week. We are deciding to do the same route next week because it’s so challenging. I think I would have had an easier time with the ride if the first 45 minutes I wasn’t sweating out the wine I consumed the night before. I must behave myself the nights before these sorts of long hilly rides. I felt dreadful at the beginning, but eventually pedaled through the misery! It took me 3 hours 35 minutes to complete this ride. Much, much slower then my usual pace, but I guess it’s to be expected considering the prior nights activities. Average heart rate was about 151 (right on target) and I burned a whopping 2015 calories for the time spent out there. Needless to say, I never feel guilty about what I eat following rides like this one.

Anyway, think the Chappell Hill ride will be a regular training ride for me considering its difficulty. It showed me this weekend that I still need some work, but my goal of 100 miles isn’t out of reach and neither is my goal of $10,000. I’m inching closer and closer thanks to many wonderful contributions from wonderful people. Thanks to everyone that has contributed thus far and to those who have committed to a pledge. Keep ‘em coming.... I really want to try and get to that $10k mark before the end of August!

Movin' Along...

Well well, I had a very good day yesterday. Everyone that responded, responded kindly. Just yesterday I received $600 in donations! Putting me at $5950... I feel like I'm getting so close to my goal. More news... I had a really good right last night. Only did 24 miles, but there was NO RAIN, which seems to be rare as of late!

Thanks everyone that contributed yesterday, and special thanks to Mason for his 2nd donation... A relative of his was recently diagnosed with cancer in her spine. I wish her all the luck in the world for a speedy recovery. Everyday I do this and train for my ride I discover another reason why its such an important cause. Keep the dollars coming in people! At this rate I just might pass my goal, how cool would that be?

One more thing... Happy birthday tomorrow to Tom and Scott.

Jessica the Hippo

I know this isn't cycling or cancer related... or really related to anything on my blog, but I think it's so adorable! I had to share it with everyone.

Time for a push....

Alright, as I mentioned yesterday, I'm over half way to my goal of $10000. At this point I need only $4650 left to raise, and I would like to do this by the end of this month... By August 31st. So, if any of you have been thinking about donating, now is the time! I'm going to start hasseling people. Up to this point, its been just a few reminders here and there, but now I'm going to start turning up the heat. HAHA Watch out! In turn, I'm going to start turning up the training as well, more riding during the week, and longer more challenging rides on the weekends. This 100 mile ride will not be easy. Its through the hill country in central Texas, just west of Austin. Its going to be beautiful, but tough. I'm really looking forward to it actually, but help me get over those hills guys, donate and make every pedal stroke count.

oh by the way....

Oh forgot to mention... I have finally reached the halfway mark to my fundraising goal of $10,000! YIPPEE!!! Another big thanks to those of you who have contributed! I only have $4650 left to raise.

Also, I'll be riding with the boys again this sunday. Looks like we have all decided on riding a very hilly 40 mile route starting in Chappel Hill, Texas at 0730! So, if any one is reading this and wants to join, we'll be out there. Be sure to bring plenty of fluids and goodies to replenish those calories being burned.....

I got an update from Joy Hild last week about how she's doing following her surgery. I'm happy to report that she's doing well after having to go and have an additional surgery on July 20th. The first surgery didn't quite get all the cancer, but the second one had great results. She's now in for some more physical therapy as she continues to recover to her normal self. Her doctor has given her a goal to reach in October, just like I have a goal to reach in that month as well. If you're reading this Joy, thank you for the update and kind words. I'll be thinking about you; you are such and inspiration!

The Image of Professional Athletes

This past weekend I was fortunate enough to witness two greats in the baseball world inducted into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. What a great atmosphere it was up there. An estimated 75,000 people turned up to watch and roast in sun as Cal Ripken Jr. of the Baltimore Orioles, and Tony Gwynn of the San Diego Padres took their place in baseball history. Not only were they leaders on the field, they were and continue to be leaders off the field by showing their support for their communities. Cal and Tony are model examples of how professional athletes should act on and off the field. That said, in the news recently, there have been constant reports of athletes cheating (steroids at the Tour de France, and that guy named BARRY BONDS), committing crimes (uhhhhhhh Michael Vick comes to mind), and just being all around disgraceful (the assholes on the Cincinnati Bengals football team, and A-Rod running around with that blonde tramp and getting caught...)! It used to be that when one was blessed with natural athletic ability they were proud and felt lucky to be able to make a living doing something that they loved. In recent times, many feel it is their right to play football or baseball or basketball or, whatever (take your pick)... and get paid ridiculous amount of money! I don’t even want to start on how MBA players act or the image that they seem to make an effort to display. $(@#$)(!%&$#^(@)#%()*^#$%&!

Anyway, during the induction speeches of both Ripken and Gwynn, they both touched on how they took a good look at themselves, their image, how they impacted the people around them, and all the children that looked up to them. They understood that what they did on the field or in the dug-out or out in public would be seen by thousands of children and adults alike. Their actions represented who they are and also projected a certain image of their sport. There is a need for more athletes like Cal and Tony. Their dedication, their drive, their hard work and solid values earned them a spot among baseballs elite. Congrats to Cal and Tony, and lets hope that the next generation of athletes aspire to follow in their footsteps rather then those of Mr. Bonds, Mr. Vick, or Mr. Landis.

My bike friends...

I have been blessed with some really cool friends, several of which have decided to join me on the 100 mile ride in October. These guys know exactly what they are in for too because they are also on the Saint Arnold Brewery cycling team for the MS 150. I have to admit though that I think they enjoy the beer more then the riding, but frankly, who wouldn’t??? I have picked up the number of days to ride recently after taking a short break while the Dixon clan invaded my house for a week. Leading up to the week of their stay, I was trying to busy myself with getting everything just so in preparation for their arrival. Therefore, little to no riding or working out at the gym was done. I didn’t actually work out, but (to use the phrase my colleague enjoys so much) I was busier then a one-armed paper hanger while they were in town, and I was too pooped to even think about getting up super early to ride or exert any unnecessary energy. Alas, I have taken a few steps back in the training.

I did ride on Sunday with the guys who will be joining me on the ride in October. We got doused with rain for half the time, but at least it wasn’t hot! When I mean rain, I mean rain like having a pitcher of water dumped on your head, or diving in a pool type of getting wet! We were all soaked to the core... shoes, socks, jerseys, hair, even the padding in my cycling shorts were, well... wet. I don’t think I need to go any further. It was fun though, and riding with these guys is always entertaining... usually non-stop banter. I particularly like watching them sprint ahead of each other and “race” for 100 yards or so, then crap out and slow down cause they aren’t in any shape to maintain that pace for more then 100 yards. I’m never worried about “racing” with them, I figure every time they will burn out and I’ll eventually catch up. One thing I noticed, no matter how old the man is, the ‘boy’ part of him never vacates the mind. They could have had riding big wheels for all they cared, but the older you get, the more expensive the toys!The video above is something I think my bike friends would do for fun...... ENJOY!

Blogs blogs and more blogs....

I read a lot of blogs, and I do write this one, but I have never posted a comment on any of those I read. Today was the exception. As I have mentioned before, I read NPR: My Cancer blog that’s written by Leroy Seivers. I even have a link to it off to the right too. I find pleasure in the way he writes and inspiration in the words. He seems to bring a different perspective to dealing with cancer. Anyway, I could go on and on praising his blog, but I wanted to post on this blog the comment I sent to his, so here you go.....

Leroy, I read every post you make. I have enjoyed and found inspiration in so many of them, but I have never felt the need to post a comment. Your entry today has been an exception. My mother called me on April 10, 2006 to tell me she was "sick", and that she was due to go to John’s Hopkins for tests in a few days. She never told me what was wrong with her, just that she was sick, and that she would know for sure what was wrong after the tests. She told me that she was having so much back pain that she finally had to break down and go to see a doctor. My mother was never one for doctors and now all of a sudden she was getting bombarded by them. Over the next few weeks, and many trips to Maryland from Texas, I don’t ever remember hearing the word cancer, not from the nurses, not from the doctors, not from those visiting her in the hospital. I don’t even remember the hospice nurses saying anything when she was finally allowed to go home. I know she never actually said it to me or around me. It seems like everyone just assumed, or was afraid to say the “c” word. Was it just me; was this the way I witnessed what was happening to my mother? Did people actually say the word and I tuned it out? She died from cancer; I know that, in her pancreas, liver and lungs, on May 5, 2006. Sometimes I think to myself that maybe her death was just my imagination too because everything happened so fast. I hoped for a long time that that was the case. No one ever said the word, maybe she never died. I miss her.
- Andrea Dixon, Houston
Ps, I blog my thoughts on cancer and memories of my mom at http://andreascyclingchronicles.blogspot.com

(If you have a chance, read what he wrote today... My comments above would make more sense. )

Over the last week I have been busy with family. So no training! Sorry about that! I have had a wonderful visit from my Dad, Nana, brother, sis-in-law, 3 nephews, and one sweet niece; definitely a house full! I didn't work out but did plenty of "work." Cooking for 10 people over a week is tough, and cleaning up after everyone is tougher. Thanks to Nana for all the help in the kitchen. I have gotten lots of culinary inspiration from her over the years and she never ceases to amaze me with her skill over the stove, and at 81, she was the firecracker of the whole group during the week! My nephew Liam is getting cuter and cuter by the minute, proof below:

Because of all the "work" being done over the last week, I really haven't checked my email. I did receive an update from Joy about her surgery on July 5th. Here's what she had to say!

Andrea, My surgery went very well with no problems. Came home today and have no restrictions at all. The doctor was very pleased with the outcome. I thank you for all your good wishes. Take care. I hope you have had notice of the donation I sent for you. I had an e-mail of them receiving it. Good luck. Joy Hild

So, as you can read above, I have received yet another donation for my cause, and that donation means a lot to me. It came from a lady who is fighting cancer, and so far seems to be battling it with an iron fist and winning!

In addition to Joy's donation, my mother's sisters Rose and Florence have each donated, and my father and grandmother contributed to the fundraising while they visited me in Texas. Thank you all so much for the encouragement!

It's back to the grind for me this week... I have some catch up exercise to do!

25% of the Goal reached

I have reached $2550 in donations so far, and I have 14 weeks left before the big event. That means I need to raise about $530 a week before the deadline of October 11th. This is not an unreasonable amount. I have in the last few days received a couple more donations online from my colleague Chris Flenner and his wife Renee, and from my Aunt Rose Pankuch, who lost her husband last August from cancer. Another donation is on its way from Joy Hild, who, as mentioned in my last entry, is battling breast cancer. I have to make a quick correction, I thought she had already gone through her surgery, but she is due to go in on July 5th. I know I will be thinking about her, I hope everyone that reads this will do the same. Thank you guys very much for the support!

Yet another reason to ride....

I received a bizarre email last week. It was from one of my Mom's former customers, Joy Hild. She was wondering how to get a hold of my mom. I know, seems odd considering she was a regular customer of my mothers and my mother passed away some time ago. I was in some what of a shock reading the email when it first appeared, but rather then responding with the full story in an email, I asked for her phone number and called instead. It was difficult to actually say it out loud that Mom had died. It was even harder to hear her response when she told me that she too was suffering from cancer. The reason she hasn't been able to go to see my mom for over a year is well, no hair from chemotherapy treatments. That can put a hold on frequent visits to the beauty shop and my Mom's superb hair cuts. Joy was looking to have a quick trim of her new hair before having a mastectomy. On the phone I was reminded of the same strength my mom had when she found out she had cancer. Joy sounded sure and confident and ready to face the next step toward getting better and being cancer free! I hope her surgery has gone well, I do believe she said it was supposed to be yesterday. I will give another update on her progress when I have a chance to speak with her again.

LIVESTONG, Joy!! You are yet another reason for me to ride!

Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas

Yippee... read below for the latest update from the LAF on the creation of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas...

TEXAS VICTORY
Dear Andrea:

Today Governor Rick Perry signed House Bill 14 (HB14), which establishes the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. View our press statement about the Governor's signing.

Over the past few months, we united together with a coalition of cancer organizations and as concerned citizens of Texas to send a loud and clear message to our elected officials prompting passage of the Texas Cancer Initiative.

Today’s signing is a celebration of our efforts, but we still have more work to do. Our next goal is to encourage our fellow Texans to make the Lone Star state a worldwide leader in the fight against cancer. On November 6th, voters will have an opportunity to approve $3 billion in funding that would provide $300 million a year for cancer research and programs.

Help keep the momentum going by signing the LIVESTRONG Army pledge today.

LIVESTRONG,
Lance Armstrong
LIVESTRONG Army

Don't sweat the petty stuff

I continually read Leroy Sievers blog called “My Cancer,” and today there was a post that was particularly meaningful. You don’t have to have or be affected by cancer in any way to get the lift that this particular entry gives. If you have a chance read it, have a real good think about what he says. It’s titled Little Things That Turn the Day Around. Mr. Sievers recently found out that he’s not completely clear of all the tumors in his body, and he has to go through the process again of more scans, more radiation, more tests, more visits to the hospital room, and most likely more chemotherapy treatments. My heart goes out to this man, not only for the reason that he’s battling the “beast” as he calls it, but he writes every single day about what he’s going through. He is a very gifted writer, and is an inspiration to all those suffering from cancer, and even to those who aren’t.
In today’s blog he makes a list of the little things that he really likes, the simple things that many look over during their day to day activities. The comments posted to his blog include other readers lists of simple things they enjoy. In response to this, I think I will make my own list of things that I really like that make my day, and make me appreciate that I have a healthy, happy life. Most things have to deal with eating or some sort of consumption it seems. I could live on chips and salsa and vanilla ice cream, Blue Bell vanilla ice cream to be specific. I have lived in Texas for 11.5 years, and I have never had any vanilla better then the Blue Bell Homemade! I love pasta dishes too, anything pasta. I think that comes from being physically active, I always crave pasta. Coffee in the morning, in the afternoon, or strong espresso after a meal late at night when I know I’m going to need to get to sleep. I like really good red wines in really big wine glasses, you know the ones that are very thin and delicate. They are fun to drink out of, and those types of glasses make me drink slower because I’m afraid to take too big of a sip in fear that I’ll break the glass some how. I like flowers, whether they are in my garden, in pots on my patio, or fresh cut. I received a hand full of dandelions from my friend Tim’s oldest son (he’s 5) when I was in Massachusetts earlier in the spring, they were beautiful. Jake seemed taken by me and was attached to me like a leech for the few days I was visiting. He was so cute with his little shy smile and his hand straight out in front of him holding dozens of dandelions. That made me smile, that will be something I will never forget. Tim lost his father to cancer a few months before I lost my mother, and we have been friends for a very long time, we relate on many things cancer (unfortunately). I like solid friendships, real friendships, ones that make you forget what time of day it is because you can’t stop talking. Friendships like I have with Tim, with Dawn, and with Jim. I like dogs, little puppy kisses on my nose, and throwing the ball with my boxer in the back yard. A baseball game live, regardless if my team wins or loses, the atmosphere of an American classic with hot dogs and beer! Beer.... mmmmmmmmmmmmm, I don’t think I need to go into that one to much, one word says it all! Getting a hug from someone always takes any pain away, whether emotional or physical. Dawn just told me that a hug from her boyfriend makes it all better. It’s something that makes her happy, and I’m sure makes everyone happy. Just a simple hug helped me get the thoughts of my mom’s illness out of my head for just for a few seconds. I think I could go on and ramble, but I know that just writing a few things down this afternoon has really put a smile on my face. So, when you’re down, think about all those things that are taken for granted in your daily routine. That cup of coffee in the morning, really taste it, enjoy the buzz, that bowl of ice cream, add another scoop. And, as my best friend Dawn likes to say from time to time, don’t sweat the petty stuff and don’t pet the sweaty stuff.

HEY HEY HEY!

I'm so excited... 2 donations, 2 days in a row...

Thanks Mr. Jim Bailey for the donation! I am at nearly 20% of my total goal, and I have until October 11th to reach $10000.

Interesting Article!

Take a look at this... different perspective on things!

A special thanks to Beverly Clarke for her gracious donation today. Keep 'em coming!

I have some work to do!

Alright, I haven’t written in over a week now, but I do have some reasons. One, my computer at home is unplugged and packed away while I’m remodeling the bedroom where it usually lives. Two, I’m remodeling a bedroom.... three, I’ve been busy with other things during the day that haven’t left me with too much idol time. So there you have it. Training, well, I have been exercising regularly, but I have been bad when it comes to actually riding on the weekends. I got a reminder of why I have to get into gear and start cranking out the miles today in my email. The routes for the LiveStrong Challenge have been decided and it’s going to be a tough one. Read below:

Austin:
The 2007 LIVESTRONG Challenge Austin will see the ride move out west to start and finish in Dripping Springs, Lance Armstrong's training grounds. Dripping Springs is a quiet, picturesque community 20 miles from the Austin city limits and is commonly referred to as the 'Gateway to the Hill Country'. Dripping Springs terrain lends itself to any cyclist who wants to enjoy a quiet, challenging ride that encompasses everything the Hill Country is known for: Texas Ranches, rolling hills, riverfront views, whitetail deer and quintessential Texas Longhorns.

The course departs out of Dripping Springs High School, and the beauty of the ride is immediately evident. The 70 and 100-mile courses head southeast towards the quaint town of Wimberley nestled along the Blanco River where the shaded roads and riverfront view is the ideal place for riding. 100-mile riders then head due west towards the town of Fisher and northwest traversing the town of Blanco. The course then turns back towards Dripping Springs for the Post Event Party.

Overall, all the course distances for the Austin Challenge encompass moderate to difficult terrain with some steep climbs. The long course will ascend a total of 6,000 ft. before finishing back in Dripping Springs.

Do you see that??? “Moderate to difficult terrain with some steep climbs.” ARGGGGGGG I need to get to work. I only have a few months, and I have a lot to do this summer other then training. I must admit though, my back is getting stronger because I’m getting better at pull ups since doing them assisted on the gravitron at the gym. Ha! A strong back does not necessarily help my riding, but I think it would be cool to be able to do a pull up, just one!

This weekend I am going to ride. I will ride in the mornings early before I start working on the walls and getting things sorted in the house, and before watching the Ags kick ass in baseball. Oh, that’s another thing... Texas A&M plays Rice this weekend in a best 2 out of 3 series on their way to the NCAA College World Series. Gig’em Aggies! I will be at all the games wearing my maroon and white. Watch it on ESPN!

Whoop!

More Inspirational reading

My friend Chris sent me this link today about a woman who won a lottery spot to do the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. She started doing triathlons for her youngest son with Leukemia. Of course... I cried after reading it, but its a "feel good" story. Read on....

Legislation update...

OK... apparently sending thousands of emails to your representatives actually works! Here's the lastest message from the LAF regarding the bills to be put to vote on November 6, 2007 here in Texas:

quote

TEXAS VICTORY

What a proud moment for Texas. And we have YOU to thank for it. During the past weeks the citizens of Texas sent a loud and clear message to their elected officials prompting the Texas Cancer Initiative (House Joint Resolution 90 and its companion bill, House Bill 14) to pass through the Texas House and Senate.

While I am proud of what we have accomplished thus far, we must now set our sights on the public vote. Over the course of the next 6 months we will have a tremendous opportunity to unite the citizens of the Lone Star state to make Texas a worldwide leader in the fight against cancer. The November 6th vote will offer Texans an opportunity to approve $3 billion in general obligation bonds that would provide $300 million a year for cancer research and programs.
If passed by the voters, the money will go to the newly established Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas which would fund research to prevent, detect and treat cancer, while also expanding important cancer prevention, early detection and control programs funded by the Texas Cancer Council.

To stay updated on this effort and take the fight to the national stage, join the LIVESTRONG Army today.

LIVESTRONG,
Lance Armstrong
LIVESTRONG Army

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