Last weekend I had the privilege and honor of meeting the team on Ride2Recovery traveling from Washington DC to Virginia Beach, VA. A 350 mile bike ride to the Beach.
Ride2Recovery is a program designed in an effort to raise awareness and "to help make a difference in the lives of Wounded Warriors by assisting with their mental and physical rehabilitation programs."
"This program provides the opportunity to raise much needed funds and the public's awareness of the challenges our Nation's veterans, particularly for the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) veterans, face with regard to physical and mental issues. By supporting the Ride 2 Recovery bicycle rides, one on the East Coast and one on the West coast, as well as future events held as part of the VA's Welcome Home program, you will help us to accomplish our goal. The VAVS Office appreciates your support of the Ride 2 Recovery rides and the benefits they will provide to our veterans."
Not only are there stars and professional athletes involved in the program, but most heroically, many wounded soldiers, family members, and active duty military members. During the Virginia Beach Patriotic concert 2009 we were introduced to just a few of them--many had never done anything like this before and some remember last being on a bike as a kid. I was most impressed by the strength and courage of one veteran who lost both his legs and yet, he decided to join the team and go on this 350 mile ride, because in the end, it was the right thing to do.
I had the opportunity to meet a few of the team members in person because we were sitting int he USO booth which was dedicated to military members (active and retired) and their families. I have always been proud of my service to this country but never more so than when I was in the company of these brave men and women. I hope to some day be able to join one of their tours. For now, I will do what I can to raise awareness, share the information with as many as possible and pray that they continue to get the care and support they deserve not just during their time at war but even more so, upon their return. It is this the time when they wage yet another war as they travel a long hard road to recovery. It's difficult for them and their loved ones.
Visit the Ride2Recovery website for more information and if you decide to join one of the rides, please do share your story, your experience, and your thoughts before, during and after your journey.
Stay Well,
WOW! I've been featured -- That's so cool! visit Evolving Wellness to read my feature article as well as all other amazing articles.
Recent Comments