The Courage Classic is a multi-day bicycle tour in Colorado that supports the amazing Children's Hospital of Colorado. I've ridden in the past, and based on the amazing things they've done for our family, I will continue to ride in the future.
Seven years ago, my son Ian (21) was diagnosed with AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT). Out of the blue, Ian had 3 episodes that presented as a heart attack. After extensive testing at Children’s, Ian was diagnosed with AVNRT and the surgeons immediately elected to perform a Cardiac Ablation. We are lucky in that this surgery went well and that for the most part, Ian is healthy and able to go about life in a normal fashion. Riding will help raise awareness for the wonderful things Children's Hospital does in our community for Ian and his brother Isaac.
Isaac (23) bravely lives with generalized anxiety disorder and as you can imagine his early teenage years were really rough. He struggled contolling his anxiety and managing his medication. The IOP and PHP program at Children's Hospital Colorado helped him and us through this challenging time. At the end of the program, Isaac was able to get back into his normal routine, resume classes in school and re-join the mountain bike team. We are so greatful to Children's Hospital for this miracle!
My neice Harper received amazing treatment from Children's as she has a rare condition that affected the growth of her skull. She's had several major operations and for a family dealing with head and brain surgeries, there's a lot of fear and concern. The Doctors and Nurses as Children's worked with my sister's family and continue to support them as Harper grows. She's doing great, and that care is monumental.
My neighbor, Josh, is also dealing with some serious issues for a boy of 8 years. After years of frustration knowing that there was something wrong, the team at Children's stepped in and diagnosed and treated a serious kidney issue. Josh is still dealing with kidney issues and has a surgery scheduled about the time of the Courage Classic 2023 to have a kidney removed. I ride to support him and the awesome family next door as well.
I am excited to once again be part of the Psyched to Climb team and to raise awareness for the mental health programs offered to kids through Children's.
Thank you in advance for your support and I will look for you on the road! Or better yet, look out for my slowness hugging the white line. Seriously people, slow down out there. You can take a few extra seconds to pass a bicyclist safely.
Thanks! - Rich Mohr
