That's right, in another bout of what will soon be self-inflicted pain, I will be participating in what's known as the AIDS Life Cycle! Coming up June 6th through 12th, the ALC is a fundraiser event in support of HIV/AIDS services, and general awareness for the population who live with, or are affected by, the HIV virus. To learn more, please visit
The AIDS Life Cycle About Page. From my end, that means I'm getting on my bicycle, and cycling
545 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles to raise money... and the bad news is that I've only got $20 so far!
What exactly IS the AIDS Life Cycle (ALC)?The ALC is a fully supported event, meaning that there are hundreds of roadies (close to a thousand) who help set up, run the event, man rest stops, and generally take care of thousands of cyclists as they make the trek between SF and LA to raise money. In my case, this is my first time (first is the worst?) and I will be riding for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation - a foundation that promotes awareness, provides support, and is in the down and dirty of dealing with people who have the HIV virus. The ALC runs every year, and many people who do it once, start doing it every single year. The $3,000 that I'm trying to raise is tiny compared to many experienced riders, but every little bit helps me get one step closer to doing the ride, and helps organizations such as the SF AIDS Foundation to have a day less burdened by finances, and more about helping those with HIV, and working towards a cure.
The ALC is supposed to be an amazing event, and everyone I know who has rode during one has nothing but praise for the experience. I am very much looking forward to sharing in that, while doing a part for charity... and that's where
YOU come in (cliche expressions, here I come)! Become a generous sponsor... that area is looking very bland right now. Actually, become any type of sponsor really. I have the goal of raising $3,000 by the time the ALC rolls around, and one way or another that bucket will get filled - even if I'm writing most of the check!
What can you do?Well, there's always deciding to ride the ALC! If you're interested in signing up, please visit
The ALC Website! However, I'm shaking my tin about donations from everyone here. That's right... the link to donate IS (drum roll please!):
I've been starting to get ready since a bit before November, and I'm on my way. So far, probably the hardest part is getting up at 5AM to cycle to work (16 miles each way) - but I'm getting closer and closer to the century rides (100 miles). I've got at least 2 coming up in preparation for the ALC - the Solvang Century and Positive Pedalers, and I'm sure there will be more to come. I really do appreciate the support that I have gotten so far in preparing my body for the ALC, however as you can see (those of you who click the link!) I'm a long ways off of $3,000 to do the ride!
