Greetings Fabulous People!

Guess who has signed up - AGAIN - to ride 100 miles over two days in late September to raise funds for the American Lung Association?

You guessed it! Good ol' "PowerQuadz" here!

I want to continue helping people who struggle everyday to breathe. And when you cannot breathe it is truly a struggle in every sense of the word - physically, emotionally, and mentally. I know this because I have been there. More than once.

Due to a genetic blood clotting disorder, I've had a pulmonary embolism (blood clot) on three different occasions over the last 20 years. In one case, there were so many clots that I was literally operating on 1/3 of one lung. I could not even walk to the restroom or up stairs without gasping for every molecule of air, and watching my lips and fingers turn blue. Thankfully, the good folks at Mass. General Hospital worked their magic and I am here to tell you about it. YAY!

So...How's it all going now? I am doing very, very well, and living a happy, active life. And I am fortunate enough to be able to train for and do this ride without hindrances of any kind! But....I  still have lingering effects that cause allergies and exercise induced asthma. The "damage" done to my lungs from the blood clots make them more reactive, often times without warning, sending me back to the ER - again struggling to breathe.

Oh, and how about.....COVID-19. RSV, flu, lung cancer, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonay fibrosis, and a gazillion other lund conditions......Need I say more?

I am joining hundreds of other cyclists and the American Lung Association to raise money to increase awareness about the importance of lung health. I know there are so many good causes to which your donation can go and I encourage you to support the organization that speaks to your heart!  But, if you are able, I would appreciate your support by donating toward my fundraising goal of $1,500.00 for this ride. Any contribution you can make - no matter how small - is very much appreciated and goes miles toward helping everyone breathe easier.

With so much love & oodles of gratitude,

Amy