About Me

Profile

About: Hi, my name is Emily Murphy! I was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. Growing up, family was a huge part of my life and continues to be to this day. Some of my fondest childhood memories are from family camping trips that remain a bi-annual tradition every thanksgiving and spring break. My wonderful parents, Carol and Sean Murphy, raised me with a love for the outdoors and a passion for exploring. They have always been my biggest fans. When I told my mom I was biking to Alaska, her first concern was when she should buy a plane ticket to meet me there! My two older brothers, Daniel and Ryan, are also sources of enthusiasm and inspiration. I am so lucky to have my family’s full support and encouragement as I embark on this incredible journey!

I have spent the last 3 years of my life in Austin studying nursing at The University of Texas. During this time, nursing has become more than just curriculum, it has become a lifestyle for me. I wake up every day eager to cultivate healing not only in the patients I interact with, but also my friends and family who have become lab rats for when I practice my nursing skills and therapeutic techniques. Each patient I have cared for has taught me many lessons on empathy and has helped me explore my own personal values. I am excited to be a part of Texas 4000 because I know it will help me grow as an individual and as a future nurse.

When I’m not busy studying for class, I make time for running, yoga, and crafting. I also enjoy singing loudly and off-key to my favorite songs. In between Netflix binges, I like to try out new restaurants and find new hiking spots. Living in Austin has opened up endless possibilities for exploration, and I am excited to see what the rest of the country has to offer along the ride! I am beyond thrilled to undertake this adventure with my teammates and become part of a movement that is so much bigger than myself!

Why I Ride

I ride for my Uncle Neil.

I was only 9 years old when my Uncle Neil lost his battle to squamous cell lung carcinoma. Neil Murphy was a devoted and loving son, brother, father and uncle. He loved to laugh, read, write, play poker with his brothers and spend time with family and friends. He was passionate about his family, especially his daughter Kerry, and was the type of person who never met a stranger. At 9 years old, I never had the chance to truly get to know all of these amazing things about my uncle. That is one of the many devastating effects of cancer. Cancer stole my opportunity to develop a relationship with my uncle, someone who grew up side by side with my dad and is a part of so many family stories. So I ride in memory of my Uncle Neil and for anyone who has lost a family member or friend because of cancer.

I ride for my dad.

My dad has always been my rock. He’s my go-to guy for advice, whether I’m asking him how to fill out an apartment lease or just wanting to know his opinion on my new glasses. Thankfully, my dad has never battled cancer. However, the untimely death of his brother, Neil, affected him. Seeing someone that you admire hurt so deeply because of cancer’s cruel grasp is truly devastating. So I ride for my dad and the pain he went through when someone he loved was taken by cancer.

I ride for all of my family and friends who have ever been affected by cancer. I ride for all of the people that I will meet throughout my lifetime that have ever been touched by its cruelty. And most of all, I ride so that my efforts may help to reduce the number of people who will suffer because of this disease.