Our inspiration - Paul Lemiux with his dad Tom
This is my 17th Courage Classic tour, and I'm riding to celebrate the incredible work and miracles that Children's Hospital brings to our community. I'm doing this because one of those miracles took place in 2002 after our 11-year old friend and neighbor, Paul, was diagnosed with an inoperable, malignant brain tumor.
From 2002-03 Paul was treated by an incredibly talented and innovative pediatric oncology team at the Children's Hospital. Thanks to Paul's tenacity and those treatments, Paul has celebrated 21 years of cancer-free health and happiness.
Paul is usually quiet and understated by nature, but after completing his cancer treatments Paul volunteered at Children’s Hospital as a teen Patient Ambassador. Those experiences as a Children's patient and advocate led to Paul’s ultimate calling -- first as a Children's Hospital EMT, next as a medical student and resident, and now as a pediatrician!
It's hard describe our inspiration from seeing how Paul turned a frightening childhood diagnosis into a lifelong calling.
Thanks for supporting my ride, and for keeping the miracles at Children's Hospital alive.
Hope you have a wonderful summer – Jim
PS In recent days, I've sadly learned about the untimely loss of a dear West Point classmate and Army friend, Geary Leathers. Geary's family requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Geary’s memory to a charity of your choice. I would be most humbled if any friends and classmates wish to contribute in Geary's honor. I will carry fond memories of Geary's effortless running strides and gentle spirit as I pedal over the beautiful Colorado peaks of Freemont Pass, Tennessee Pass, Camp Hale & Battle Mountain (original home and training grounds of the 10th Mountain Division), and Vail Pass. May Geary rest in eternal peace, as we grip hands and honor his amazing life through an organization that helps children and families in need.
