Day 5 was a very interesting and difficult 85 miles of pedaling. However, it was a story of human spirit!

As the rolled out of the campsite, it started to rain —- in fact it started to rain before 4 am. Throughout the day we had the experience of riding through rain, thunderstorms, strong crosswinds and blistering heat. But all that does not say anything about today.

Around mile 37, I stopped at an optional rest stop — the only restaurant we stopped at so far. Typically, I keep to myself. A older gentleman, part of the ride stopped asked if he could sit next to me. I said of course.

We started talking and exchanging life stories. His name is Rick and is about 67. He told me it’s been four months since his chemotherapy for cancer. And that he is happy to ride 550 miles.

Then somehow we started talking about hospitals. I shared that I was in a near fatal car crash about 25 years back. As I was telling him I was airlifted to the hospital and that saved my life. He went on to say he was a medvac helicopter pilot in Maryland for 18 years. Rick had saved many lives like mine in his career! And now riding to raise money for cancer research a mere four months after his chemotherapy. A serendipitous encounter.

Triumph of the human spirit!

Pictures of Rick!

Sharing a few pictures from day 5!