In July of 2022 I was bitten by a horse fly while riding. I did not crash but it did hurt. (Dang thing bit me twice and then flew away unharmed!) I cursed that fly for months. In January of 2023 I discovered that my horse fly likely saved my life. I do not curse that fly any more.

When I braked after that fly bit me, I arched way back to keep from falling as I braked. Pulled lots of muscles and felt something pop. Most of the pain went away after 4-5 months. But in January I found out the “pop” was likely my T4 (vertebrae between my shoulder blades). It was broken. The break was caused by a tumor. The tumor was caused my Multiple Myeloma. Holy crap! I have cancer. (If you want to see more about my story, visit www.TheRoadRider.net and watch the Option B videos.)

So my goals for this year are way different than in the past. I cannot ride outside - still have a broken T4. I am in treatment which significantly reduces my energy. And on September 7 I do a stem cell transplant which means 2+ weeks in the hospital. But I still have goals and they will still be a challenge.

August & September

*Bike 610 miles on a trainer.

*610 hours of strength training.

*Post 61 items on eBay and sell 30.

*Be the best patient ever in the transplant center.

*Raise $29,000

August Only

*3100g of protein consumed in August.

*<310 of added sugar.

September Only

*Post a status update including my fundraising everyday.