My cup is full

This weekend was not like any other weekend…I rode 80 miles over 2 days in memory of my husband, Mike, and in honor of my mother-in-law (Anne), my best friend (Mel) and my aunt (Elaine). Each has been diagnosed with cancer and thankfully 3 of them are with us still today due to their courageous battles. They were all on my mind, as was Mike and his very quick and unsuccessful battle with pancreatic cancer. Mike loved penguins and ever since he passed, my bike sports a penguin sticker complete with his initials and a heart…he’s always with me when I ride.

Of course, I think of each of them a lot and, if you’ve followed me at all, you know I also ride a lot of miles. So, what was different about this weekend then? Thousands of people in Central Ohio also hopped on their bikes and rode for Pelotonia, a nonprofit organization that provides all donations from this event (and others yet to come) to James Cancer Hospital at Ohio State University for cancer research.

Riders of all levels of health and fitness rode. I saw all sorts of bikes. Riders could choose a 1- or 2-day event with ride totals anywhere from 20 miles to 190 miles. Companies supported riders with jerseys outfitted with logos and the most important question of all – “Who do you ride for?”

It was so very impactful and powerful to see the volume of people on the road and those lining the streets supporting the riders. Even people brave enough to drive sections of the course were honking, waving and cheering us on. In addition to the riders and cheering squads, there were so many volunteers supporting the start and finish lines (multiple of them), the rest stops along the routes, and at the expo and commencement and finish line parties.

I held back tears on multiple occasions as I saw numerous names listed on riders’ jerseys in memory of those who are no longer here and in support of those who have fought and won or are still fighting, and witnessed the amazing survivors who also rode in defiance against the cancer that once threaten their lives. There was a rainbow of colored ribbons representing the cancers that have impacted people’s lives. And I heard “thank you for riding for me” throughout the hours on the road.

It struck me during the 2 days I was out there, and since, that Pelotonia just brought together a community in a peaceful and supportive way and did so to create an even better world – one free of cancer. If that’s not impactful, I don’t know what is, especially in today’s climate.

If you rode, volunteered and/or supported the riders this weekend, I’m in awe of you. If you donated to the cause, you are amazing. The way this community came together is truly special. You all filled my cup this weekend – thank you.

To date, ride weekend has raised nearly $15M, which takes their 15-year total to over $300M. Fundraising is still open – check out my page at Pelotonia | Shannon Crone…yes, I’ve hit my fundraising goal but why stop now…cancer needs all the research we can throw at it. Who do you donate in honor of?