I have to admit, being a part of Texas 4000 has scared the daylights out of me until just recently. Being surrounded by so many passionate and committed people, and with so many goals and deadlines and requirements. I was afraid on so many levels that I would fail this amazing organization.

But lately I've started to lose that attitude, which is perhaps what gives me the courage to write my very first blog entry.

I only got back a few weeks ago from a summer study abroad program, so I was really behind on getting my business donations for Tribute, our silent auction plus gala for 2010 riders returning from Alaska. I don't know if I've ever been so stressed out about anything in my entire life--begging businesses for donations is absolutely contrary to my nature. But I set up my computer and my notebook and it became like a job, emailing business upon Austin business asking for whatever token they could donate. The turnaround rate was discouraging, but then again, every time I saw the Re: Texas 4000 for Cancer email in my inbox, with a donation attached, it was such a rewarding feeling!

After agonizing over my letter for weeks, I've finally started sending them out. The donations are slowly trickling in, which is a relief considering that looming September 1st deadline of $1,000. But as the money slowly comes in, I get the amazing privilege of hearing people's stories. Their husbands, wives, families, themselves--have all had cancer. Those people closest to them have lost their lives to cancer. It's humbling and horrifying, and after months of stressing out about money, it is a wonderful reminder of why we're really here, and how important Texas 4000's true mission really is.