It all started about 5 years ago when I was diagnosed with Stage 2B Bulky Hodgkins lymphoma at the age of 45. I was very fortunate to find an amazing team of doctors and nurses at Dana Farber, a place that I still call home even to this day even when Im only visiting once a year. I knew that once I beat this, I wanted to be able to give back to this amazing "family" that I am now a part of. 
So, how did I become a cycling lover? Well, when I was beginning to get back to my normal life after treatment, I had gained a serious amount of weight due to the steroids. I returned to the gym with a new lease on life knowing that I had some work ahead. Walking on the treadmill/elliptical was tough on me as the neuropathy in my feet was brutal at first. My personal trainer mentioned to me how about trying a 30 minute cycling class...I thought, NO WAY,.those people are NUTS!! However, being open minded, I gave it a try....only to find out that I LOVED it!! I found myself signing up for multiple classes weekly and set out on a goal to one day become certified to teach. 
Cycling made me feel strong, stronger that I had felt in a long time. As I participated in more and more classes, I also started to sign up for other riding events and even signed up for my first 5k. Fast forward to 3 years later and I am now a certified Ride/R30 instructor at my gym. I took my love of cycling and turned it into a way for me to continue on my health journey, but to also inspire others. Cycling has done so much for me mentally and physically, I am so excited to be able to take that drive and give back to an organization that does so much for Cancer patients. I am forever grateful for everything this great organization does to help those still in their fight....and am grateful that I can give back.
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