Bike MS 2012: A Purpose-Driven Life

Me and Kate at the end of day two.

On June 23rd and 24th, I was fortunate enough to take part in Bike MS Utah: Harmons Best Dam Bike Ride to benifit the Utah chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

I was fortunate on many fronts. Bicycling is one of the few forms of exercise that I really enjoy. To be able to pair that with this great cause gives me tremenous satisfaction. It adds value to my life.

I got to share that weekend with my wife, Kate, and about a dozen of our friends.

Team Gates' Gears, named after my father-in-law who died of MS, was comprised of ten riders and two volunteers. Together we managed to raise $6000 for the MS Society. I can honestly say, I've never been so proud of a group of ragtag friends and family as I am of this group. There's nothing special about us. We're just like anyone else. But with some organization (thanks to our awesome team captain, Lenise,) a little effort, and a lot of heart, we achieved more than any one of us thought we would.

On that note, I have to take moment to thank all of those who supported me and donated to my cause. I could not have achieved what I did without you. Your generosity and compassion surprised me, moved me, and impressed me:

Josi K., Meredith G., Mike B., Margot H., Randy C., Rose L., SusieDee M., Teresa D., Dave M., & Jason P.

We did something new this year that made it even more memorable. We took part in the Bike MS Champion program.

The Bike MS Champions program pairs people living with MS with cyclists who ride in their honor. The champion pairs exchange e-mails ahead of time and often are able to arrange to meet at the ride’s finish. They will share their story with you and offer you encouragement as you fundraise, train and ride in Bike MS. You can share your Bike MS experience from training to finish line with them.

We were fortunate enough to welcome two MS Champions to our team: J.D. Early (read his story here) and Angelina Kump (read her story here). Connecting with these two amazing people and sharing this experience with them made our efforts all the more significant and personal.

J.D. and his wife MaryAnne

Angelina

This was only our second year riding in Bike MS, but I know there will be many more to come. Participating in this event is part of how we live a purpose-driven life.

What's your purpose?