I am in disbelief. We're here and it's over. But what a fun ride it's been and I'll be thinking about everything I've learned for the rest of my days. The truth of it is that I could elaborate on all the personal struggles I've been through and it wouldn't hold a candle to the wonderful spirit of all the people who've survived cancer and the loved ones of those who didn't. What comes out in the human spirit while battling such a uncertain fight as cancer

is just amazing. Everyone has a story. This trip has tought me to put meaning to that story and I will never forget the people that tought me that.

The characters on both the Rocky and Sierra Routes have been the leaders in making it happen. Among those leaders,

I salute Chris for making a dream come true--for all of us.

What I love about my team is this:

1. Galvan (John)- He takes note of the best in people and

loves that about them.

2. Tessaroo- Real as they come. Throughout the last few weeks, I've gotten

a bit weary about the realities of study abroad and if it weren't

Tess, I'd be scared out of the wazoo.

3. Dan O- The "go- to" guy on Water Resouce Management- an issue I regard

with utmost priority in the future of the environment and

he will be resourceful to the world in many ways.

4. Mitch- My inspiration every day. He had a brain tumor and is still

showing us the strength of a survivor.

5. Lorig- By far, altruism personified. She is so generous and always

helpful and with my knee time- she was the gal helping me

the whole time.

6. P. Willy (Paul)- No matter how tired I was, Paul kept me

laughing. I always thought he was shy

at first- but then his antics just made

me crack up to the point that I

couldn't keep a straight face.

7. Brynn- She has a sixth sense. Whenever someone was

feeling off, she was the first to notice and

the first to help without wanting credit. For

her suttle comfort, thanks Brynn.

8. Loke Dog (Alok)- Mr. Witty man has left us in stiches on more

than one occasion. He always reminds me

that we are doing this for cancer and everytime

he talks about his time at MD Anderson, I know

that he will make a great doctor one day.

9. Libby- The toughest person on the road- and the most power postive.

I look up to Libby in so many ways and wish that this country

was full of more people with her work ethic.

10. Anderson- Smarts and wit like no other. Brett always reminded me

of good times on this ride- Llamma farms and surprises.

Most of all, he has a memory like an elephant and I love

that.

11. Abram- When Abram has an idea, it is easy

to become just as excited because his happiness is contagious.

12. Dare (Andy)- the "Elder"- this guy was decision making at its best.

I would like an Andy Dare on any force I am ever a part of.

13. Laura - If I have a daughter one day, I would want her

to have the strength of Laura Noll. The girl

can ride with the fastest of riders and never

mentions that it is diffucult. She keeps our heads high

and I appreciate her friendship.

14. Carly- Smiling always, Carly is constantly strong. And, she is the

first to help at that very moment I need help but not

ready to ask-- thanks Mountain Lt.

15. B-hauer- One day into Montana I was on the verge of

tears because I was beginning to realise the

knees were kaput. Bredthauer in his unspoken

charisma kept me going by merely a look of

encouragement. He was a dear friend before

trip and a confidant throughout.

16. Martina- if I could put a laugh in a jar and capture

it, I would choose Martina's laugh. It

reflects the optimistic strength she

has. She is as true to her beliefs and I

appreciate that.

17. Pepito (Adriano)- Our political conversations will

always stay with me and I appreciate his perspective

and am very grateful for his advice. He is a compliment

to Brasil, the Americas, and mostly humankind.

18. B-Mags (Magsaman) - Mags is so dependable. I love the fact that

he can always cover the details-- no questions asked.

19. Zeph (Mike West)- Never complains and kept the spirits high. His happy

smile is what kept Zamboni day fun.