Five years ago I lost my wife of 30 years and the mother of my three children, Birgit Caliandro, to cancer. My life will never be the same. My children will not have their mother at their weddings. One of my kids recently reveaed that she will give me my first grandchild. I couldn;t be happier, but shortly after getting the news I had to steal away to quietly feel the pain. Her children will never know their grandmother. I will not know the pleasure of her company as I grow old. No amount of fundraising, or miles ridden will bring her back. What I can do, however, is to live and ride in Birgit’s honor, and memory, and to do my part to help others. Althogh cures formcancer seem forever elusive, I don't beleiuve that this will be the case for long.

Losing Birgit left a hole in my heart that will never be completely filled. The great thing is that my personal journey has led me to new friends, experiences and purpose. I am honored to be riding with team PopSci again this year and thank you for your support.