Today we began our uphill journey just outside the small town of Hot Sulfur Springs, Colorado headed toward the highest achievement of our cycling journey, Berthead Pass. This 11, 312 foot pass was what stood between us and Denver….and, ultimately, returning home to our children. It would be a significant climb taking us above the tree line into cold weather and a low-oxygen environment. It proved to be a challenge that landed some on the summit of the mountain and others discouraged breathing oxygen supplied by a local fire department. All were lucky enough to enjoy a, nearly, 5000 foot decent into Empire, a tiny town roughly 40 miles outside of Denver.
Since all of the dads made a valiant effort during the ascent, forgoing the relay style that had carried us thus far in the journey, none were in any condition to cycle into Denver. We drove the remaining miles and bedded down in the Wyndham Hotel in preparation for what may be the biggest event of the Loneliest Road Campaign to date.
Tomorrow we will venture into downtown arriving at Denver Fire Station 1 to meet the press. We are being told that we will then get a fire department escort to Children’s Hospital of Denver, where we will meet with a number of brave, determined children in the midst of battling neuroblastoma. We are so motivated by these kids and we all feel like this will be one of the most meaningful events of our entire journey. The Rockies are nothing and these kids are everything.
We are all starting to feel the effects of being so far from our spouses and children. News is constantly pouring in from the home from, some good and some devastating. We are all ready to be home with our families, but we know that this endeavor is incredibly important and can have everlasting effects on neuroblastoma treatment. This is bigger than us, and our desires to be closer to our wives and children. We know that we must stay the course, and we will.
Love you all, see you soon.
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13 comments:
i am so incredibly impressed, keep up the amazing work! i would do anything to be able to cheer you on, but your route does not come near my home. sending love and strength - kristen smith
Great job getting through those mountains guys!! I've been forwarding your link to all the national news networks...someone needs to pick this story up for you guys to help spread the word and get the money that's needed for these precious children. I have 2 children of my own and I thank God every day for their health but I know things can change in an instant as it did for you all. I'm praying that the media will bring this story to the person or people who can make this research possible to help save our children. Also, praying for your safety and strength and for your families.
Keep up the good work and the good fight. Sending you best wishes and lots of energy. Carissa Barker
You all are proving that one person can make a difference. I had never heard of Neuroblastoma until I read Michael Love's story on the Sprint Intranet. As a co-worker (though we don't know each other), I care about your cause Michael. But as a mother I am so touched! I am rooting for each of your children fighting the cancer, and each of the dads fighting the road for the next uphill mile and each of the mothers sitting by their children's side during tests and transfusions. I am so touched by the commitment your families have and the attention you are bringing to Neuroblastoma. I will read your story every day and tell others about it to help get the word out. To each of your kids - it seems obvious that your dads all love you so much that they didn't think twice about biking across the country - but more importantly they are all loved enough by you to give them the strength to make the ride. After seeing your strength fighting Neuroblastoma, I'm sure it is easy for them to find their strength too. Keep up the fight - GO GET EM!
Welcome to Colorado!! All of you, along with your children and families, have the love and support of Mike's Sprint co-workers in Denver. We are cheering you on every step of the way. Stay safe and strong!
To the Amazing Dads
I used to live in Grand County, CO and drive those beautiful roads each day. I commend you for biking up Berthoud Pass - what a way to experience the Rocky Mountains! Well done! You are true heroes to so many. Good luck and be safe!
You guys are doing great. We just got checked into Children's Mercy in KC, but I'm hoping to attend whatever you guys have going when you get here.
Keep your heads up on that trek through Western KS, and enjoy the peace (and flatness!).
Colby, Cade and Amy
Sending many hugs and prayers for a safe journey, many ears for your message and deep pockets that will empty for research for a cure.
You are all making a difference!
hugs,
Heather,
Mommy to Brianna now 15 years old
dx ALL, New Years Eve 1998, POG 9605
Off chemo 6 years 7/5/07
www.caringbridge.com/ny/mylittlesunshine
Daughter to Pete, dx CLL May 1999
Relapsed fall 2003, 2nd relapse fall 2005.
Cord blood transplant 8/3/06 at BW in Boston MA
www.caringbridge.org/visit/petek
Wow, you guys are doing a great job, your passion and desire to make a difference is coming through loud and clear in all the different articles and newcasts that I have seen - incredible! I noticed that the lady I spoke to in Salt Lake had written an article and I would like to make more calls for more media in Kansas City, etc. anyway to let me know where your media events are going to be held, so I can make some calls? Patty McCormick
Wow you guys are doing a wonderful job. Your passion and desire to make a difference is coming through loud and clear in all the articles and news cast that I have seen. It is awesome! I noticed that the lady I talked to in Salt Lake did an article and I would like to make more calls and get more media out to your scheduled stops, anyway to let me know where you are going to be in Kansas City, etc.? Patty McCormick
GREAT JOB GUYS! You are incredible & I wish you all the very best on your trip for a worthwhile cause! My thoughts & prayers are with you & your families. I hope you reach your goal PLUS that is needed to help these chidren. I'm tracking you from Naples, Florida & spreading the word about this wonderful & worthwhile cause. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
Way to go guys!! Keeping you in my prayers as you make your way across Kansas. I was there a few years ago and imagine all that FLAT land is welcome after the Rockies. Know that so many of us are praying for your safety, that you reach your goal, and for the health of your brave children.
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