Why I ride

Dear Family and Friends,

How often do we have a chance to be the light? In a world of challenges, triumphs, joy, and sadly… loss, how can we truly make a difference? Today each one of us has the opportunity to be the light that makes a difference. It's as easy as clicking on the Donate Now button on this page!

I am excited to let you know that I am riding in my seventh Courage Classic bicycle tour benefiting Children's Hospital Colorado. Part of my training to conquer mountain passes in our beautiful Colorado high country included a 67 mile ride yesterday. I hope you will join me… if not on your bike, through your donation. Together, let’s be the light that makes a difference for children and families affected by childhood cancer and blood disorders.

I am riding with the Wheels of Justice team as in previous years, and my personal goal is to raise $5,400 for the children and families who rely on Children's Hospital Colorado for care. Each year I get to deepen my relationships with old teammates and meet new ones. Many of these teammates are families of children whose lives are cut short or forever altered by childhood cancer and blood disorders. Others are their health care providers. Still others are survivors whose stories light a path of hope toward a brighter future. These teammates are the light that makes a difference.

As I contemplate what is means to be light in the darkness, to truly make a difference, two special teammates continue to shine brightly. We continue to hold close in our hearts the memories of teammates Martha Riedel and Koby Gruenwald, both of whom rode with us in years past. We will ride with their families again this year.

Koby taught us to find light in the darkness through music and dancing, and continues to inspire us to do good things. In fact, Koby inspires his younger brother, Micah, who is organizing the fourth Tour de Koby. On August 6, we will ride 40 miles around Denver/Aurora stopping at significant places in Koby’s life including Children’s Hospital and Koby’s school. Micah explains why he rides. “I ride for Koby. I ride for all the amazing people who put some much care, love, and support into Koby's treatment. I ride for all the kids, like Koby, who just want to live a normal life, but cannot, due to their cancer diagnosis.”

Martha showed us how to make a difference in this world through pursuing treatment and trials that might benefit not only her, but all children with Ewing Sarcoma. It was never just about her. She rode with us in seven Courage Classics (even while on chemo!). She also created a beautiful legacy through her grit, perseverance, authenticity as well as the beautiful pottery, prayer flags, and art she lovingly crafted.

Why do I ride? To honor the memories of Koby and Martha. And… I ride so their moms, dads, sisters, and brothers know they are never alone on this journey.

These children, along with their parents and siblings, never give up. It is not an option. As their teammates, we never give up. I am asking you to join me in helping to be the light that makes a difference for them and the many (too many) other children and families who are still fighting.

Whether you are in Colorado or farther away, I am asking for your support because Children's Colorado is near and dear to our family and our community. As I ride the Courage Classic this year, Kathryn will be working as a Chief Pediatric Resident at Children's Hospital Colorado. Our family remains strongly committed to this outstanding organization! Children's also provides care for kids from around the country and contributes to the health of children and families nationwide through outstanding research.

I invite you to join me in being the light that make a difference in providing healthier futures for the thousands of kids served every year by Children's Colorado. It is faster and easier than ever to support this great cause by making your tax-deductible donation online. To make a donation, simply click the Donate Now button on this page!

This is for Martha. And Koby. This is for their families. Join us. Let them know that we will make a difference. Always be the light. Thank you!

With gratitude,

Lori