My Purpose for Pedaling

My name is Brooke Smith and this blog is to document and follow my journey, a journey to raise breast cancer awareness. Most of us have been affected by breast cancer in some way. I recently experienced the pain that breast cancer leaves in its wake after taking the life of a defenseless victim. Pictured above in the center of this photo is Kara. I met Kara in 2001 when I was a senior in high school. She remained a great friend and role model to me through my young adult years. In 2007 Kara was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a mastectomy. Her cancer then went into remission. In September of 2008 I received a call that Kara's cancer had returned and it had spread to her bones. Needless to say, this was devastating to Kara and all of us who love her dearly. Kara put up a fight and never gave up. After a heroic battle she passed away on November 17th, 2008.

While driving 18 hours through the night to get to Kara's funeral I had a lot of time to think. To think about what is really important in life, to think about what can be done to eliminate the pain and suffering that Kara and other breast cancer victims are subjected to. Being an avid cyclist I looked at the beautiful vistas in Wyoming and Nebraska (yes, there is beauty to be found in Wyoming and Nebraska) and thought about how much more I could see if I crossed the country on a bicycle instead of in a car. Then, the idea was born...riding a bicycle across the country is a remarkable feat and one that could bring awareness to the cause for breast cancer and help fight for a cure.

This is a goal that will require much planning and organization for it to have the impact and success that I envision so with that in mind the ride is scheduled for the summer of 2014, in five years. It has just begun, the idea is new and I am beginning from the ground up. I have no experience with these types of things so if any of you out there do and would like to help please leave a comment.

Please stay tuned.....