The Courage Classic has always been a big part of my family. My dad is a founder (someone who has never missed a single year of the ride) and will be riding for the 35th year! I rode with him for 4 years on the back of a tandem bicycle when I was a teenager, and everyone in my family has participated in the Courage Classic several times over the years. We’re at it again this year as it is my dad’s passion and he says he is going to keep riding until he just can’t anymore!
My dad rode in the inaugural ride in 1990 but 3 years later it became a more personal cause to support. At only a few days old, I was diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism, which in infants, can lead to impaired brain development if not treated. My parents were referred to an endocrinologist at Children’s Hospital and I was seen there regularly for bloodwork and treatment for the first five years of my life. My parents noticed a profound difference in their experience at Children’s Hospital. The phlebotomists, nurses and doctors were all so adept at what they did as well as reassuring and comforting to both the baby (me) and parents alike. Years later, my sister Shelley joined the amazing team of nurses at Children’s, working as an RN there for many years, and riding in the Courage Classic herself.
The Courage Classic is an event unlike any other. The atmosphere is always so incredible and inspiring. So many people come together in the heart of the Rocky Mountains to share hope, inspiration, encouragement, and support for Children’s Hospital Colorado. It's not a race or about who finishes first! You ride at your own pace and enjoy the incredible views and surroundings. And it's by no means easy! The 2-day, 100-mile route goes over some of the hardest passes of the mountains, all on a bicycle! But your struggle to climb Vail Pass or Battle Mountain pales in comparison to some of the struggles these kids are going through everyday as patients at Children's Hospital Colorado. These kids fight diseases and their own bodies day in and day out, but they receive outstanding care from all the nurses, doctors and specialists at Children's.
Until last year I hadn’t ridden in several years, but I had been to a few tours recently cheering on my dad and sister as they rode! Last year I decided to join my dad on the back of the tandem once again! Donating to Children's Hospital Colorado helps fund the research and treatment of a multitude of children's disorders and provide exceptional care to patients not only throughout Colorado and Rocky Mountain Region but the rest of the United States as well!
Thanks for visiting my personal fundraising web page. If you would like to make a donation today you can click the link at the top of this page to make an online donation. It's easy, fast and safe. Plus, you'll be making a difference for a great cause. Your donation will help Children's Hospital Colorado patients thrive and survive.
Thanks in advance for your generous support.
Check out the video below to see why others are passionate about the ride as well!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV-okt_UhL8&feature=emb_title
