Even with a few fairweather drop-outs, what an awesome turnout for the Recycle Ride!

After a gazillion days of gorgeous sunshine, the rains arrived in the Lower Mainland with a vengeance. Exactly at the same time as our Recycle Ride for pediatric transplant research. Rivers of water on slick road do not make for fun or safe descents from killer climbs, and we actually weren’t even sure if any riders would show up at 7am this morning. Well, we were so excited, honoured and touched to come around the corner of the JJ Bean on Commercial Drive to see an awesome group of people. Wow! And even more impressive…they were prepared to go for a ride.

The cheer team at the first rest stop.

We decided right away to kill all the butt-kicking climbs due to safety and everyone agreed to just see how it went as the morning progressed. Of course, 15 minutes after the cyclists took off, the skies really opened up. By the time they arrived at the first rest stop 28km later, they were drenched. And at the next rest stop, the decision was made to end the Recycle Ride at Grouse Mountain. Not quite the 160km, four-crazy-climb, full-day event we had been planning for, but life doesn’t always work out the way you want. You just do the best you can, and have as much fun as you can. I think we accomplished that today!

Addison loved “her bike ride”, as she calls it. She had a great time cheering on the riders despite the wet weather, and she kept the support team thoroughly entertained while hanging out in the support van, refusing to take off her PJs all day. She makes it easy to see the bright side of things, no matter how bleak things may look. Doesn’t the sun always come out after the storm? And of course, it certainly did exactly that. Vancouver weather!!!!

Grouse Mountain – the rainy day end of the Recycle Ride.

Next year, we are going to have an even more incredible event. Our experience this second time around made us realize we have a great community of riders, supporters, transplant family, friends, loved ones and family. A big thank you to each and every one who took part today, and to our sponsors: Canadian Transplant Association, Price-Smart Foods (Grandview), Superstore (Marine Drive).

What an awesome team!

And a big hug and thank you to all our generous donors who gave to the Addison Pediatric Transplant Research Fund. You make it possible for us to help support researchers who are giving hope to families like us. Transplant isn’t a cure, but we know we can get there. (And if you haven’t donated, it’s never too late!! Click HERE.)

Much love and thanks,
Elaine, Aaron and Addison