#19: MS150

I have participated in the Bike MS150 event for four years, and it is hands down one of the most fun events I do. Day One of this 150-mile bike ride begins in Frisco and ends at the Texas Motor Speedway. Day Two of the event ends in Downtown Fort Worth. I will do the MS150 again this September in San Antonio. 
 
The purpose of the event is to raise money for MS research so we can ultimately live in “a world free of MS.” This year, my old ‘Faithful’ helped me complete yet another MS150 over the course of two days. There were 5,939 participants and over $7,528,975 was raised for this excellent cause. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to raise money for a cause while spending the weekend with people who inspire and motivate me.  I leave feeling so grateful for a healthy body that allows me to ride 150 miles. This year I decided at the last minute to participate and I was worried I wouldn’t be able to raise adequate funds in time. However, my friend (who inspired me to participate in the first place) helped me raise the money in a short period of time (the community surrounding this cause is dedicated)! 
 
Charity events attract some of the friendliest people around. This is likely because everyone comes together for the spirit of the cause and any sense of competition comes second. Cyclists and volunteers alike are passionate about their participation and the entire event feels like one big party and celebration. Some riders, like myself, decide to be a part of a team while others ride alone. There is also an option to do a portion of the course, or you can complete the entire 150-mile course. Regardless of how you participate, one thing is certain: everyone is supportive and encouraging.
 
The positive energy and excitement keeps everyone motivated and most people find they can go further than they would have imagined because of the cheers and encouragement. Pride and accomplishment not only arise from the physical accomplishment of participating in the race, but also because the race outcome means more: raising money for a meaningful cause. 
 
If there is a cause and community near and dear to your heart, I hope you find a way to get involved. Not all groups are equal. One friend with MS told me she went to a support group early after her diagnosis and it was miserable. Others seemed stuck and negative and she left feeling worse than when she arrived. Then she found the Meat Fight and MS150 community. Here the community is a stark contrast to that. People with MS find a way to participate (even if that means using a trike or only participating in part of the course or as a volunteer). They lift people up and simultaneously push themselves physically. Finding a group with positive people is important (and possible)! If there is not a cause that specifically impacts you or a loved one, find a community that you can service. I do not have MS, but I am very passionate about supporting this community. And I know like me, you’ll get out much more out of it than you give... 
 
Until Next Monday…