hey everyone! I've been meaning to write now for such a while. I think I've written so many blogs in my head that ranged from getting to know my teammates and the organization well, and thankful for their awesome support, to getting excited about contacting our hosts along our route.

So as we count the days until departure, we also count the miles we ride, which in the end should become a blur because we will have ridden so much that we can't keep track. We count every single "why I ride" dedication to the cause and continue to grow as a team and individually because of this. As many people struggling in the fight count on orgaizations like us that help with the cause through research, financial assistance and educating, we count on the community and on each other to grow bigger and better as a team and to help each other with our struggles. I know many teammates that have helped other teammates raise funds which truly shows the generocity and care we have for one another.

When I joined Texas 4000, one of the main things that inspired me was the fact that we are given the opportunity to reach out to the communities that take us in. Being a part of the travel committee, one of my duties is to contact our generous hosts as well as hospitals or cancer centers to visit and spread our mission as well as learn how these communities are involved in the fight against cancer and how they have been impacted by it. Yes, the riding is an adventure, but to able to meet people and see who they are, and hear what their story is; this is truly an opportunity I have always imagined. I can't wait to not only get to know our hosts but to visit these hospitals and centers that help cancer fighters and survivors, who are always battling.

So with this, I am counting the days until we leave as well as all the support leading up to this and during our ride. And as much as the communities count on us for doing this, we are also counting on the communities that help us with our fight by spreading the word and donating. So for all out there, if you can just help in any way, every little bit counts. Send us your ride didications, donate, or just simply follow us and spread the word.