I always seem to find myself blogging whenever tests are around the corner. Probably not a good habit to get into, but between all the tests (yes, plural) presentations and projects, my brain can only focus on so much school. T4K, well, that’s a different story. There never seems to be enough time in the world to contribute to the group. If I had my choice, I would so much rather do just T4K. Sorry Mom and Dad. Seeing as that’s not really a choice, no sense in complaining about it.

One hundred nineteen days. That’s all that stands between me and a journey to Alaska to spread our cause. Well, that and a few more biking mileage. This semester, we’ve hit the ground running. Saturday morning rides are in full gear. Volunteer opportunities are set up. Host families are being contacted. Passports are being collected for the ride. By the time June 2 rolls around, there will be a new force taking on the fight against cancer.

In the meantime, we’ve been cranking away on the mileage. Or trying to squeeze in rides between class and work. The rides have been a blast, even the ones where the wind is so strong that it feels like it’s about to knock you off your bike flat on your face. Even the ones where the hills seem like they’re never going to stop rolling (and not in the direction you want them to be). I never biked before this, and now I never want to stop. Growing up, my family always took road trips or seemed to be driving in 500 different directions to go to soccer games or whatever, but nothing comes close to what it feels like to be on a road with nothing but you and your bike. And the greatest teammates ever right there next to you of course. I feel so blessed that my fight against cancer can take place on a bike, spreading awareness 4500+ miles across the continent. Others aren’t so lucky. Every time there’s a hill that I just don’t want to climb, or wake up for a ride and not want to roll out of bed, the first thought - after the initial complaint - is that those fighting cancer don’t get that option. They don’t really have much choice but to get out of bed each morning and fight.

Peace.Love.Bikes.

danni.taimuty@gmail.com