Hello again, fellow Tour de Moosers. It’s that time of year again; time to laugh with your friends, feel the wind in your hair, have some delicious beverages, and celebrate the 1st anniversary of Moose’s 40th birthday.
By now, you probably are familiar with these sweet faces. If you need to refresh your memory, take a few minutes to read these posts from 2009 and 2010. Three years ago, Matthew and Andrew Akin were the inspiration behind the first charitable portion of the Tour. In 2009, over 35 selfless Tour de Moose participants donated cheek swabs in order to be added as potential donors to the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) AND raised over $400 to help defray the cost of joining the NMDP for other individuals. In 2010, over $1200 was raised and donated to The Matthew and Andrew Akin Foundation. What are we capable of raising in 2011?
In 2011, we welcome two new participants to the TDM. The Tour is honored to be hosting Kristin and Justin Akin; parents of Matthew and Andrew and founders of The Matthew and Andrew Akin Foundation. Kristin and Justin have been working tirelessly the past year to raise money for the Foundation and bring awareness to the disease that ultimately took the lives of both their sons.
In February, Kristin and Justin hosted the 1st Annual Trivia Night and Silent Auction for the Foundation. 400 people gathered to raise money for the Akins and have fun with friends. In May, Justin undertook a feat that I’m sure would interest many of you bicycle enthusiasts. Justin embarked on a 15 day, 1500 mile bike ride (and you thought 20 miles was hard!) from Amarillo, Texas to Chicago, Illinois ending on what would have been Andrew’s 4th birthday. On Justin’s 3rd day, 85 miles into the 86 mile leg, Justin has a terrible crash going 30 mph. The crash certainly was worthy of a Tour de Moose “Crash and Burn” Award. Justin suffered a broken shoulder, severe road rash, and numerous gashes and soft tissue injuries. Justin's ride may have ended earlier than expected but with a father's dedicated heart, he has vowed to complete the ride for his sons in the very near future.
In September, Kristin and Justin made the journey to Yosemite State Park for their 3rd Hike for a Cure. The summit of Half Dome is a very strenuous 18-mile round trip hike. It typically takes 10 to 14 hours to complete. Yosemite Valley is at 4000 feet, and the top of Half Dome is at 8800 feet, for a gain of 4800 feet. As you can see, they have been hard at work raising money in memory of their sons. Can we help them? You bet your sweet (sweaty!) asses, we can!
2011 brings a few changes to the charity portion of the Tour. Because you all have been so kind and generous contributors to the Foundation, Moose has added a little incentive for you to donate. The winner of the “Mooseheart Award” (the biggest financial contributor to the Foundation) will receive their own table of 8 to the 2nd Annual Matthew and Andrew Akin Foundation Trivia Night and Silent Auction. Michelle Aldridge has won this award for the past two years! Thanks, Michelle (and can anyone top her?) Also, for every dollar you donate, you will be entered into two raffles. Donate money and win exciting prizes such as fine wine, tequila, and vodka, restaurant gift certificates and more!
At the 2011 TDM, as you are enjoying a lovely bike ride with friends, please remember the two little boys who continue to inspire us to live better, love more, and be kinder to each other.
Matthew and Andrew, we will ride because you can’t.
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