This will be my second year riding for the Ride to Conquer Cancer. If you asked me last year why I was riding, my reasoning was fairly different from this year. That alone reinforces my desire to ride. Last year I rode as a tribute to my late father, who we lost in 2011. I rode because I felt like I had to. I rode to pay my respects to him, in some way of my mind. The weeks leading up to the RTCC weekend, I was so stressed out. I didn't know what I needed to be completely prepared, I was worried I wouldn't wake up in time, I was worried I couldn't ride the entire distance, and I was afraid of disappointing everyone who was supporting me with fundraising to cheering me on along the ride. 

This might be cliché, or too soon to say, but the Ride to Conquer Cancer changed my life. When I finally came out of procrastinating to fundraise and ask for donations, my community began to form. I learned of other people's experiences with losing someone close to them, or standing with someone as they fight their battle, but with such tragedy came incredible positivity. Along the ride I met people who were fighting, I met survivors, and I met a lot of people who had lost somebody important to them. Cancer is a battle that we come together for, and I'm so glad I know that now. I'm riding this year because I can, and I have no reason not to ride. Riding means that I will raise a minimum of $2500. The funds raised are used directly for patient care and cancer research. Any donations, big or small, are greatly appreciated! 

If you'd like to learn more about my journey and my dad's battle with cancer you can find my page from last year's ride (www.conquercancer.ca/goto/adammonk16) but please make your donations to this one! You can also stay updated with my ride on August 26 and 27th via my instagram page (www.instagram.com/adamthecraftsman)