Life started in Omaha, Nebraska where my family resided for three years. From the very start, the United States Air Force decided that my Dad’s career and my family’s home should constantly change. After eight moves to seven states, nine houses, three high schools, and an endless amount of packing tape, I have a deep appreciation for our military and for my family’s ability to adapt to new environments. As a result of my distinct childhood, I had the opportunity to see many different places. Growing up, I lived in Abilene, Texas for six years and ultimately chose to attend college in Austin. Why Texas? I usually answer with a good friend’s quote, “I’ve never been to heaven, but I’ve been to Texas.”

I spent my first year in college at the University of Missouri-Rolla, a smaller engineering focussed school, wondering where I would find my niche. After some deep thought, I pulled up a UT application online and the rowing coach’s phone number deciding that I needed a broader college experience. Within two weeks of transferring to UT and moving to Austin, I attended my first UT football game in Memorial Stadium. It only took one game to turn my blood orange. After I reflected upon my decision to transfer, I haven’t looked back. Now after two years at UT, I am a senior chemical engineering student and a proud Longhorn. A large part of my decision to transfer coincided with a strong commitment to row, so I joined the men’s rowing team Texas Crew and became a student athlete. Two years of competitive rowing introduced me to cycling as both a hobby and cross-training activity. I made the right decision and I could not possibly list all the unique experiences I’ve been presented with as a UT student.

My concern for those afflicted with cancer, a new found love for cycling, and transferring to UT ultimately led me to Texas 4000. Throughout my lifetime, I may not remember what street I lived on or the name of my little league baseball team but I will always remember the people. As many of have seen, people in our lives sometimes encounter one of the many forms of cancer. For those people in my life and outside, I dedicate my ride to the search for a cure.

As a part of Texas 4000, I choose to devote my time and resources towards the battle against cancer. I ride to share my grandfather’s story of success. In 2005, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer during a routine physical. With early detection and a new treatment option on his side, my grandfather now has an excellent bill of health. Although there is no cure, improved treatment methods gave my grandfather and our family more time to live and love.

I also ride to share my childhood memories of an influential woman. Samie Gilliam reached out to me as a second mother as I was growing up in Abilene, TX. My father’s career with the U.S. Air Force required constant travel and Mrs. Gilliam gladly took care of my brother, her son, and me while my parents were away. Her kind-hearted and loving nature lives with me to this day. Sadly, Mrs. Gilliam passed away in May after a four year struggle with ovarian cancer. Her life will never be forgotten. I dedicate my ride to her remembrance.

I realize that the advances in medicine made possible by cancer research ultimately aid people like my grandfather. Unfortunately, cancer research has not come far enough to reach a cure and prevent the loss of those close to us. Though I do not have the medical expertise to treat cancer, I am motivated to do my part. I ride to promote cancer awareness and the search for a cure.