AIDS/LifeCycle Training Ride

Why I Participate in AIDS/LifeCycle

AIDSLifeCycle has affected me in a way I never would have imagined. This rare event gives people such an amazing way to make a difference in the lives of countless HIV and AIDS patients. The money you have generously parted with pays directly for the needs of those already afflicted with this virus who would have no other means of attaining these things otherwise. It's funny to call these opportunities rare considering this is my third year in a row riding 545 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles, but really there are very, very few events in the world like this one.

I had never done anything particularly athletic in my life when I registered for ALC5 in February 2006, and was fascinated by the physical challenge it presented to me (and was happy to help out where I could at the same time). I am thrilled to say that I have found my nitch, but I am proud to say that I continue to ride for less selfish reasons. We are a community of 3000 people united for the same purpose. We (I) ride for our (my) expanding group of Positive friends and for thousands of others we will never meet. I have a better understanding of what AIDSLifeCycle is really here for and I cannot imagine any other way I will be spending my first week of June (whether it is as a cyclist or a roadie)... every year... until there is no reason to ride... anymore.

I still continue to enjoy the challenge I force upon myself and I hope you appreciate the challenge I have forced upon you by asking for your help. To my wonderful, loyal donators: you should be as proud of yourselves as I am of myself. I am honored to have such supportive friends and family.

From the bottom of all our hearts: THANK YOU!

All my love,

Caitlin

3rd year cyclist; 1st year training ride leader