Sometimes in life you meet people by happenstance who end up becoming like family. People who take a great interest in your life and wellbeing, people that open their lives to you, people you share laughs with, people you create lasting memories with, and people that fill your heart with love.
In 2011, I met Rich and Claudia at one of the annual MS 150 rides. Rich was a friend of a friend who loved cycling. At the time he was just another rider in cycling pants. I didn’t realize that ten years later my kids would be asking for Mr. Rich on a Sunday morning. My relationship with Claudia began at the finish line where she cheered on Rich. That evolved into coffee after our weekend rides at their RI home, wine parties, and cycling adventures out in CA.
Claudia does not cycle but has always motivated me with her daily walks that show up on my Strava feed. She is a strong, fierce, independent woman, outstanding mom, and a fabulous wife. In 2022, Claudia was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis and is being treated by Dr. Eric D. Jacobsen and his team at Dana Farber. Despite this being incredibly unfair, Claudia has focused her energy on climbing this challenging hill.
Some of you may know that this year is my 40th birthday. A lot of people have asked about the big party and what we are going to do to celebrate. This year to celebrate I am going to ride the Pan Mass Challenge with Rich to raise funds to support Dr. Jacobsen and his team at Dana Farber. So, to celebrate my 40th I ask that you embrace my request for a donation to support Claudia.
Thank you
Photo of Claudia, Rich, and I at Mission Ranch
