As I announced in December, this year I've decided to ride in the Arthritis Foundation's California Coast Classic - a 525 mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. After volunteering for the 2013 and 2015 tours, and meeting some amazing individuals who managed to do the ride with arthritis, I decided to make it my own goal for 2016!
Right now, my RA is being treated with two forms of chemotherapy: an oral dose that I take once a week, and two doses via infusion (IV) every six months. This treatment plan is currently working well, giving me the confidence to take on a big physical goal like riding in the CCC. However, the medication I currently take via infusion is the fourth biologic medication I have tried - and I know from past experience that there's no guarantee it will continue working for me in the future. That's why it's so important to me to support the Arthritis Foundation as they work to fund research and resources for adults and children living with arthritis.
Yesterday I took my brand new road bike on its maiden voyage! (Wearing my husband's jacket from the 2015 CCC!) Things I learned today: I have basically no idea what I'm doing with the gears, traffic circles are mildly terrifying on a bike, and (perhaps TMI) bike saddles are hard. (The veteran riders assure me that this will get better as my bottom, ahem, gets used to it). I only rode 7.3 miles, so I have a long way to go in my training, but it's a start!
As you think about your charitable contributions for 2016, I'd like to request that you please consider supporting my efforts. Even if all you can contribute is the cost of a latte, I promise that every little bit will help me reach my goal - and I will be extremely grateful for your support!
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