It’s
here…. Day 0 aka ALC 2013 orientation. My nerves were kicking all day today
from excitement and nervousness of the journey. Although I’ve done the ride for
the past 2 years, it’s always a “different” ride. A part of me misses the
curiosity, wonder, and unknown of year 1 and a part of me looks forward to
sitting back and enjoying the view as a veteran rider knowing that the I will
eventually get to the destination.
A
big part of Day 0 is watching the 40 minute mandatory safety video with
undivided attention (cell phones off, eyes up). For me this video strengthens
the spark that brought me to ALC in the first place… to support the fight
against HIV/AIDS. Seeing the statistics scroll across the screen and hearing
from infected riders who at one point lost hope and with the help of SF
AIDS Foundation and others like it, were given a second chance – is what
inspires me to ride. It’s a reminder of all the people and programs I’ve
worked with over the last 14 years in the fight against AIDS and I ride to honor
the work being done all over the world.
545 miles is no joke,
I’ll be sore, exhausted, and even emotionally drained and delerious… it’s at
these moments that my mantra will keep me going “the ride is bigger than me”
it’s a movement, it’s a mission, it’s life for someone out there.
I am so grateful for
all the generous donations and kind works over the last few months, you are all
riding with me in spirit!
51 weeks out of the
year I’m a wellness program manager…. this week I’m a force against HIV/AIDS!
Let’s ride….
I’ll try to post
updates on my blog and on twitter @rituriyat #alc2013
in gratitude
ritu
