When my wife was pregnant with our son Dawson, everything looked healthy and normal. Every scan and genetic test came back without concern. But on his due date, Dawson surprised us with several serious medical challenges, including a tracheoesophageal fistula, microtia of his right ear, choanal atresia, and multiple GI issues that resulted in an ostomy bag and feeding tube. Dawson spent the first five weeks of his life in the Level 4 NICU. Nothing prepares you for the feeling of going home without your child.
In his first six months of life, Dawson had more than six surgeries, countless medical appointments and procedures, and many days in the hospital. It hasn’t been easy. But through it all, we have been incredibly blessed by the support of our friends, family, work, and an amazing healthcare team.
Our time at Children’s Hospital Colorado has been nothing short of incredible. In the middle of a very scary situation, they bring comfort and hope to families like ours. They remind you that you are not alone and that this is a place where kids can truly thrive. From meals provided by the Family Resource Center while Dawson was in the PICU, to the hand-tied blanket that kept us warm during long nights on a hospital couch, to the teddy bear Dawson received during one of his many stays — these small acts make a huge difference. None of this would be possible without donations.
Fast forward almost one year, and Dawson is absolutely crushing life. He’s crawling and climbing like a true Colorado native, with walking just around the corner. While his medical journey is still ongoing, things are slowing down and he’s getting to experience more of his childhood outside the hospital. Despite everything he’s been through, Dawson is the happiest and most joyful child I’ve ever seen. He has already faced more challenges in his first year of life than most people will face in a lifetime—and he does it with a smile that lights up every room and warms every heart.
I have absolutely no cycling experience. But I wanted to show my son that it doesn’t matter how you start — What matters is how you face the obstacles life throws at you head on. So, I decided to do something hard.
I will be riding in the Courage Classic (July 18th-19th), attempting the 42-mile Vail Pass route with 3,777 feet of climbing and a max elevation of 10,627 feet. The following day I will ride the 48-mile Keystone route, adding another 2,298 feet of climbing. That brings the weekend total to 90 miles.
With your support, we can show kids like Dawson that they have the courage to overcome any obstacle. These kids are the true definition of courage.
Thank you for supporting Dawson and the incredible kids at Children’s Hospital Colorado.
