I grew up in a rapidly growing suburb of Dallas. Cedar Hill High school’s mascot is also the Longhorn and has the same fight song, so I truly am a Longhorn for Life. In high school I was involved in many extracurricular activities and was a member of the Varsity Swim team for four years. My most important accomplishment was attaining my Eagle Scout rank from Troop 520 in Cedar Hill. Boy Scouts shaped me into who I am today. Through Boy Scouts I grew to love the outdoors. In my free time I enjoy adrenaline pumping activities such as mountain biking and snowboarding. I enjoy traveling to Red River, New Mexico with my family and grandmother several times a year. My grandmother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in May of 2003. Her treatments were at MD Anderson in Houston. Without the generous people there I would not be able to enjoy the same vacations. Despite all that I have accomplished so far, I feel a void. I’m ready for a life altering experience. I want to acquire the means of spreading knowledge, providing hope, and inspiring those fighting cancer.

What originally attracted me to Texas 4000 was the cycling aspect. Upon looking deeper, I learned the true meaning of this ride. One in three people are diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. The staggering number is mind blowing. Cancer is continuing to work its evil into my life in numerous ways. By participating in Texas 4000, I can finally make a difference in lives, inspire people, and provide a message of hope that is greatly needed. Cancer has had a daunting history in my family. With research and awareness we can prevent others from going through the same pain. This ride will help me grasp a sense of closure to those I have lost and obtain redemption for the struggles people encounter with cancer every day. Some of the strongest people I know are cancer survivors or patients. Texas 4000 gives me a chance to pay my respects to them.