Riding with Fatty

Elden's wife Susan has cancer. She's been getting chemo treatments on and off for the last few years, but her situation has gotten much worse recently. The cancer made its way into her brain. She has only a few months to live, if that.

Some friends and I have been trying to figure out what to do to help their family. One thing Kenny did was to set up an account where Elden's many faithful readers can donate. Elden agreed to post a button on his site. I'm glad he did this. It's difficult to accept help, and it's even more difficult to ask for help. Many of Elden's readers know how generous he has been in giving away prizes, helping other cyclists in need, and pouring effort into his beloved blog. A number of commenters begged him for a chance to pay back his kindness.

We also decided to get together and do a ride this weekend. At first glance, it seems pointless. "Hey, I hear Susan's dying of cancer. Let's all get together and go on a bike ride!" It seems desperate. Or futile.

And what's wrong with desperate acts of futility?

Especially when you can talk and ride and have a few laughs. I'm telling you, that ride we did on Saturday on the ridge between Draper and Alpine will go down as one of the most memorable rides of my life.

Elden, your buddies are with you. Susan, keep fighting.