Giving Back - Be a wish granter!

Each year I when I think about my race schedule, I struggle with what I should sign up for. If money and time were not an issue, I would have a calendar filled with destination races, and exciting venues all over the world! Of course, the reality of my life prevents this from happening! So as race season gears up, my mailbox is bombarded by many brochures and opportunities. The ones that often catch my eye and pull at my heart-strings are the runs or events that championship a cause.

 Each year the fine people at Make-A-Wish put on an amazing event to help raise money to grant wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. Honestly, I am NOT a spinner or a cyclist. I only had my bike from college. You can imagine just how awesome that bike was! I was talked into doing this event by some of my wonderful friends who have done the event in the past.

I didn't really feel the passion for the event like my friends did and I started to wonder if this was really for me. Remember I'm not a biker chick! Plus, I was training for my first marathon so my schedule was pretty packed. Well, two hybrid bikes, gear, glide, clips, shoes, several road rash injuries, and a new bike rack later, I felt that there was no turning back. I raised the money for the event and went to the fundraising events that my team organized but still didn't feel 100%  hooked. It wasn't until July 29th, (a great day to celebrate my wedding anniversary with my hubby) that I realized the true mission of Make- A-Wish. I was feeling nervous as we rolled into the famous Michigan International Speedway grounds. Almost instantly I realized that it didn't matter that I felt like such a biker newbie or looked like a complete idiot on my hybrid bike, (road bike envy) I was just one of many who wanted to give back.

The ride was scenic and fun. I had a wonderful time laughing with my friends and touching base with the 300 milers at the rest stops. It was challenging for sure. Who knew Michigan is so hilly? I didn't quite have my biking legs, but I kept thinking about the kids. The moment that it all came clear for me was when we were coming to the silent mile. This is a memorial for all the kids that are not with us today. Their journey ended far too soon. It was emotional and moving. It was impossible to not thank God for blessing me with my healthy children. I will never forget that moment. Once I composed myself and started up again, I started to feel the energy of the group change as we got closer to the finish. The crowd cheered as we rode the final lap around MIS. It was hotter than blazes and my legs were on fire, but I didn't care. I looked for my children and for our wish hero. Little Cole was waiting for us and cheering us on. It was an amazing feeling.

The day was topped off by getting a "thank you" hug from our wish hero. Here is the pic. So 50 miles is just a small task that I do simply for that moment. Please consider giving to this amazing organization. You too can be a wish granter!  Make A Wish Personal Fundraising Page

If you have moment, please watch this video to see what Wish A Mile is all about. This is our wish hero rolling across the finish line with some members of Tour de Wishes!
On the rode to grant wishes - Em