Children’s Hospital Colorado represents hope—for families facing devastating diagnoses, and for those still searching for answers. That hope is deeply personal to me. My wife and I lost two babies to spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that, 10 years ago, had no effective treatments. The grief of losing them remains, but I’m inspired by the incredible progress in SMA care.
Thanks to advances in research, including work supported by Children’s Hospital Colorado, the outlook for children with SMA has transformed. Today, early genetic testing and breakthrough therapies are giving kids the chance to sit, walk, and live full lives. These once-unimaginable milestones are now real possibilities—and they’re only achievable because of continued investment in pediatric research and care.
Our journey didn’t end with SMA. My wife is now facing ALK-positive lung cancer, and once again, we are witnessing how fast science can move when supported. Recently developed targeted therapies are giving her a real chance, reinforcing my belief that rapid progress is possible for all diseases.
Events like the Courage Classic power this progress. They fund research, help families access life-changing treatments, and honor the stories of fighters like Martha—this year’s honoree—who bravely battled Ewing sarcoma for seven years. Her legacy inspired a $1 million research grant to help find a cure.
I ride to honor our children, and to help ensure families get access to these treatments. Join me in supporting Children’s Hospital Colorado so children and adults with SMA, cancer, or other conditions can live vibrant, hopeful lives.
