I ride to give hope to Children’s Hospital Colorado patients like Sofia.
Eating has always made 17-year-old Sofia’s stomach hurt. Eventually, she was diagnosed with gastroparesis, which means her stomach wasn’t emptying properly, along with a form of disordered eating stemming from the terrible pain she experienced during digestion. She also has a blood circulation disorder and a very rare connective tissue disorder that affects every system in her body. A multi-disciplinary care team has helped Sofia mitigate her symptoms and work through her pain and medical trauma.
Over the past year, I have been floored by my patients' strength and resilience. Few humans are stronger than a raging 3-year-old, no one can keep you on your toes like a critically ill infant, and teenage oncology patients are wise beyond compare. I have learned difficult lessons about loss and hope and how they are often the same.
The past year has been a trial-by-fire and inspired me to set a goal of doing something challenging for me; participating in this ride. Many of you know that I have a fraught relationship with bikes. Since I demand my patients face their fears, I should probably do the same.
