CHARITYLANCE ARMSTRONG FOUNDATIONThe Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) unites people through programs and experiences to empower cancer survivors to live life on their own terms and to raise awareness and funds for the fight against cancer. The LAF focuses on cancer prevention, access to screening and care, research and quality of life for cancer survivors. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, the LAF has raised more than $250 million for the fight against cancer. Wiederhold & Associates has joined the over 60 million LIVESTRONG wristband wearers to help make cancer a national priority. I have reflected on my own life and have always noticed a trend. When I have given, what I have received in return has been tenfold. I count myself as fortunate and I have come to realize that, in the end, God will judge us not on our profits, but on our commitment to help our fellow man. And, even though my efforts will be judged inadequate, I will strive to do my best. And, what better way for me to do this than to give and keep healthy at the same time? 2011 EVENT Thank you to sponsorsI want to tell you how the LiveStrong Ride near Austin turned out, but more importantly, thank you for your generous donations. I did not quite make my $10,000 goal, but came in around $9,500. We will shoot for $10,000 next year. Sometimes words fall short for how much I appreciate you all that donate. I wish I could give you back something in return, but I have just not come up with something of equal value. This year I was in excellent shape, but always at a disadvantage because in Houston it is flat and in Dripping Springs, Texas it is not. I tried to offset that this year with spin classes and stationary bike in a heavy climbing mode. It did help, but did not take me over the top. Another challenge was one week before I had biked 60 plus miles along the coast of Texas in an event with the worst wind I had ever experienced. I did finish strong, but many riders cramped because of the wind.
I must admit going into the event I was not all that revved up. I was feeling tired from the ride just prior and was not looking forward to riding alone. Two things changed my mind. My son Kyle and his girlfriend, Amy, would be coming along and when I arrived in Austin and went to pick up my number and attend the dinner, I realized what I was there for. This was not about me and how I felt; it was about people who are fighting cancer every day and those that just ran out of time in their fight. I just could not imagine the kind of courage they had and have to take on that battle every day and embrace life at the same time. They were the true heroes and how I was feeling really did not seem all that important. I would ride my very best for those who are still with us like my ex-wife Marilyn (who beat cancer) and those who are not like my mom Ruth, my sister-in-law Joan and those close to you that donated.
I was humbled by their courage and pray that when my time to be courageous comes, I can do it with the same class and attitude. So I successfully completed another LiveStrong event as I reflected on the real heroes. Again, thanks to you and your generosity. You hold a special place in my heart. 2010 EVENT Thank you to sponsors
As for the ride, grueling as always…. the hills seemed a bit bigger this year even though it was the same course as last year. And, in addition to that, the wind decided to participate in the ride this year. But, when the cause is as great as this one, bring it on…you will not stop us! I will be back next year and will call on you once again. And, if you have a cause you believe in, do not hesitate to call on me to support you. Again, thanks from the bottom of my heart for your help. Best regards,
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I would be remiss if I did not take the time to thank you for making this another successful year for me in raising funds for LiveStrong. Even though I did not reach my goal, I did come in around $7,000, and, considering the effect of the economy, I am pleased. People like you dug deep and helped anyway.