It’s not over until it’s over

This year I decided to ride in honor of my dog, Shadow Boxcer. She is the smartest and most loyal dog a dog mom could ask for.

About 4 years ago the vet told me that she only had about 3 years to live because she had cancer. Then, about 4 months ago another vet told me she had lymphoma. Neither vet based their diagnosis on an actual test, it was purely speculation based on her breed and symptoms at the time. Assuming that the vets knew more than I did, four months ago I agreed to start Shadow Boxcer on a steroid treatment. After watching her deteriorate and lose 10 lbs I finally decided it was time. I scheduled the appointment only to cancel it a few days later because I wasn’t sure I was doing the right thing. Two weeks later, after watching her hair fall out and witnessing her grow increasingly lethargic I scheduled the appointment again for a week away. I needed time to process this decision. I mean, how does one know it’s the right decision to end their pet’s life? During that week that’s all I thought of during my rides. Bike riding has always been the time I use to think and find solutions. Well this time was no different.

I called a vet I trusted and talked to her. How did the previous vets diagnose Shadow Boxcer with cancer without running any tests? That’s when I did some research and realized she was suffering from the side effects of the steroids, not necessarily cancer. Wtaf?! These vets gave my pid a life sentence by putting her on steroids. I had to get her off this mess asap! I immediately started cutting her dosage back. The next day, Shadow had more energy and was talking again. Greatful and mad at the same time I scheduled an appointment with a different vet.

The day I was supposed to euthanize her I took her to the vet. We discussed a plan to wean her all the steroids and treat her for the side effects. While Shadow hasn’t made a full recovery yet, it’s important to note that having cancer doesn’t need to be a life sentence. We must have faith and keep hope alive! We must stay strong and do whatever is necessary to take care of ourselves and others. And, finally, don’t give in to the fear of the diagnosis. Get a second opinion. Then, fight like hell to stay alive and healthy. Lesson learned!

In love and honor of Shadow Boxcer who is still making me stronger by riding with me as much as possible.

❤️🙏🏽🌞

Surround yourself with people who have your back

Every year I participate in the GCC I am amazed by the support I receive from complete strangers. Why is it that strangers will provide support to people they don’t know, when people you know act like they can’t support you?

Maybe, they just don’t want to support you, huh? But, why? Because they don’t have the money? (Doubtful) Because they’d rather give their hard earned money to Uncle Sam? (Doubtful) Then why? Because they don’t REALLY like you? (Likely) Or, because they are jealous that you are doing something good for others and they aren’t? (Possibly) Because people are selfish and self-centered by nature. (Absolutely) The ego is a funny thing, huh?

Every year I am both energized and disappointed by the response I receive from people. Maybe I just expect too much from people I know. Either way, it serves as an important lesson. ONLY surround yourself with people who love and support you. I know I’m not, because I will forever expect from others the same love and support that I give. Don’t settle for less!

Signed,

I am my brothers (and sisters of course) keeper.

❤️🙏🏽🌞

Let’s kick cancer’s butt!

This year I’m truly humbled to participate in this ride as a person that has recently witnessed the effects cancer has on many of our lives, and the lives of those we hold dearly. It is a horrible disease that no one should have to go through, especially children.

I continue to ride and endure the pain, so that a child won’t have to. I ride so that one day soon we will discover a cure for cancer and end the pain and suffering it causes.

Thank you kindly for your encouragement and support. It means more than I can express.

Be blessed. ❤️🙏🏽🌞