Birthday Miles
What is it that could make a day riding my bike better? Of course riding with friends. My friend of 38 years Kathy and I turned 50 this month. The tradition with the bike club is for everyone to get together and ride birthday miles. I casually mentioned to the club members that Kathy and I would be doing this on Saturday. Low and behold we had an impressive group ride on our local rail trail from Auburndale to Polk City (not a city at all). After a rendition of happy birthday reverend Keith S. started us off with a prayer of thanks. We have so much to be thankful for. Our beautiful Florida weather, our friends, our bikes and our good health. I would like to introduce some of the members because they are an impressive group.
First is Barbara K. long time member and board member. Barbara is in her 70’s, a retired RN. She has traveled across and around the US and Europe on her bike. She has done at least two cross continental rides. As a matter of fact Barbara has passed her circa 1980 Schwinn she rode to Kathy to begin it’s new life.
Next we were joined by Mary and Joe B. Joe, (in his 80’s) is a retired anesthesiologist and his wife Mary a retired RN are from Minnesota. Joe started one of the very first out patient surgical centers in Minnesota.
We also had our good friend and former news letter editor Allan R. Allan has filled his retirement by volunteering his time to various worthy causes.Cycling has helped him to keep his diabetes in check. At 70 Allan is one of the strongest riders in the club.
We are always glad to see board member and resident computer expert Willie Q. Willie started cycling on the advise of his doctor as a way to improve his blood pressure and cholesterol readings. Willie has helped me with my training by challenging me to sprints and improving my peddling technique.Theresa C. and Greta M. were there with their smiling faces and stimulating conversation.
We were delighted to see two members return after overcoming some significant health problems. Donnie E. had been riding for years when he noticed he did not have the stamina he once had. When he went to the doctor for a check up it was found he had severe cardiomyopathy. He was shocked to discover he would likely need a heart transplant. He subsequently sought a second opinion. Thankfully the doctors decided he could benefit from a pacemaker/ implantable defibrillator. It has been two weeks since his implant and Donnie is back on his bike and feeling strong.
Also back on his bike and looking fit is Bob M. Bob was diagnosed with throat cancer last year. He has just completed several weeks of radiation therapy with a great attitude and good humor. He has been willing to share his story with many of us. He is a true inspiration! We will be praying for a clean bill of health and many more miles on his bike. When I think of the health issues with our little group and the care and technology that is at our fingertips it also brings to mind the tens of thousands of people in our own country who do not have access to health care. Add to that the numbers world wide who not only do not have access to health care but also struggle to meet their daily needs. As a culture we will be judged by how we treat the weakest members of our society. The Ride for World Health beneficiary Doctors Without Borders does the hard work bringing basic care to the most vulnerable people worldwide. I feel privileged to be a part of helping this organization. PEACE, Marianne