Ok, there has to be meaning and purpose to ride 250 miles on a bicycle in late June in South Texas... My name is Steve Bourdon and this will be my second time participating in this event. My first time was about 11 years ago - for sure long enough to forget how long, hard, and cookin' hot it was. Yet I clearly remember the fun and camaraderie I had with everyone riding to support a cause beyond ourselves.
I've been on-and-off the bike for a handful of years dealing with a few health challenges of chronic back pain and surgeries. The spine is definitely an area that's humbled me and changed my outlook on life. I can only imagine the journey a young one with Spina Bifida faces and the courage they have to power through surgeries and therapy. Today, I am blessed for being functional, pain-free, and full of energy to tackle another go at this ride. I look forward to getting to know the wonderful folks who will be riding and supporting the event this year.
As others have pointed out, everything is relative. Our struggles are temporary; a few days on a bicycle is no comparison to the sustaining courage and love supporting those families in their journey with Spina Bifida as well as those promoting folic acid awareness through outreach.
This event has a direct impact to our community. Thanks to the many organizers and volunteers for your efforts.
Please join me in supporting this worthy cause. The mission of Spina Bifida Texas is "to improve the lives of those affected by Spina Bifida and to primate its prevention through folic acid awareness".
Cheers! Steve