Random Acts of Kindness - Alive and Well.

My belief in mankind’s generosity continues to be reaffirmed each day.

On Wednesday morning of this week I had just arrived to my office and our local JDRF office was on the phone. They had just received a call from an individual in Florida who was wanting to know information about Taylor – where was she with her pledges and what size of pledge was required for her to reach her goal. The individual said to my friend Chris in the JDRF office “write down my Visa number and make sure Taylor reaches her goal for pledges on the JDRF site”. Before I could even deal with the call and contact my wife to try to figure out who this individual was, and return the call, the pledge had already been done.
Last summer, Lesli and I had the opportunity to meet this person through a mutual friend. Although a very brief encounter it was obviously a very special one. Taylor’s online pledge goal has now been met.

From Team H2V and the Balagno family we sincerely thank you for your interest, compassion and generosity and allowing Taylor to achieve her goal.

I tell you - I am Starting to feeling like a slouch after working with some of the individual we have recruited to help with the daunting task of pulling off this event.

Another selfless person that is making an incredible contribution to Team H2V is Kim Hexter.
Kim lives in White Rock – is a client of Innovative Fitness White rock and through hearing about our event and being close friends with Cheryl Wilson Stewart was onboard and committed. From day one, Kim has fit in like she was always meant to be on the team.
Kim is one of those individuals who has a naturally sunny disposition and is always incredibly friendly and accommodating. I haven’t had a conversation or read an email from her that doesn’t exude a purpose of being positive, productive and effective. She is another individual who has taken on numerous projects and responsibilities, that are clearly outside of her responsibilities.
As we cross the country Kim will be onboard managing the coordination of our Peloton support and “Guinness Record” checkpoints. Two full time jobs that are integral to the success of our campaign.
I thank Kim and her family for sacrificing the time to help in the success of Team H2V.

Sept 6th is shaping up to be a great night, make sure your there. Ticket are available on our website -TeamH2V.com

Our website continues to be updated. Over the next few days revised maps and time schedule will be posted. Most importantly you will be able to follow us live and watch this amazing event unfold on the web cam.

Kyle

Rider talk.

Kyle Balagno.

q: How has this event impacted you positively thus far

a: Probably the best physical shape of my life, but more importantly it has forced me to step out of my comfort zone a do things that I would have otherwise avoided.

q: What has surprised you the most.

a: Peoples generosity.
Each day people make a huge sacrifice and commitment towards making this event a success. From our sponsors to the team volunteers, both here and across the country, the unconditional willingness to help is overwhelming. Even though the majority of these people have no direct connection to Diabetes. Its amazing what a group of like minded people can achieve when there is a common purpose.

q: If you had one wish for the ride what would it be.

a: To leave a legacy for JDRF.
To be able to hand of an extremely well developed event such as Team H2V to JDRF or another family to pursue the same way that Taylor and I have been so fortunate to experience. This would be the ultimate achievement


q: Biggest concern(s) heading into this event

a: Logistics and safety
We have a lot to do once we hit the ground in NB. We have to get the vehicles prepped and we have to get the team onboard and comfortable in what will be their new home for 9 days, and we have to do this in a very short period of time.
We are going to be traveling on some ugly stretches of highways in un-formidable weather conditions. Although we are taking all the precautions we can, I pray we travel safe with no accidents or injury.

q: The people who has surprised you the most

a: Cheryl Wilson Stewart – an incredible lady. Very generous, committed and talented lady. I am extremely fortunate to have had met Cheryl and have her work her magic on our event.

b: David Plant – a life long friend. Even though we are both off living our own lives, running our own businesses and family commitments we always keep in touch. Dave is a true friend. When we get together we pick up where we left off with no BS or drama. In June when I was in Toronto and had the opportunity to hook up with Dave, H2V was the major topic that evening. After a great dinner and several beer into the wee hours of the morning Dave was onboard. Each day Dave bring fresh ideas and opportunities to the team that in the end he ends up implementing them himself. I greatly appreciate Dave’s contribution to Team H2V.

Final Countdown.

These final days as previously mentioned are getting shorter and seem faster than usual. All of our last events are quickly approaching. This weekend brings one of our final LSD rides…a 2.5hr cruise in the fading summer light and heat. We are also taking part in an interesting event on Sunday. Team H2V has been auctioned off for the day! We are spending the first part of the morning participating in a circuit class at the Innovative Fitness in White Rock. Then, we are hosting a group ride for donations and to raise awareness. I’m not sure what’s happening after that, but I believe it may entail cleaning a pool and flipping burgers. Well actually, that doesn’t sound too bad at all! Of course next week our send off party will be in full swing on September 6th. Come out and mingle with the team. Check www.h2vpushthepace.com for details.
Lots of amazing things are still happening at a tremendous rate. Willie was on Rock 101, we secured some additional national support with CTV and public service announcements are gaining momentum and really making an impact.
Is it really Aug 30th? It’s hard to believe that 2 weeks tomorrow the team will be waking up and officially getting on our bikes. In front of Eastern supporters and official Guinness Book of World records members we will dip our tires in the Atlantic to begin what we are all eagerly anticipating. Seriously, I am so excited to get on the road. As I’ve mentioned before, I’m nervously excited, but confident that we will experience success!Keep your eyes up as you drive down the road for bikers. We hope that just knowing about us you all will give a little more leeway to any cyclists you may encounter. And who knows, maybe the next set of riders you see will be the 5 guys relaying across Canada!

Rider Talk.

Matt Young

q: How has this event impacted you positively thus far

a: It has taken me out of my comfort zone in calling in favors from people and having them exceed my expectation. I should not be surprised as we preach surrounding yourself with great people, but until you need someone, you don 't really know how great they can / will be.

q: What has surprised you the most.

a: The lack of direct 'action' through the JDRF. From a business standpoint we know many people want to run events through charities and utilise their infrastructure, however, I don't think ensuring the message reaches every person on their database [about what we are embarking on] is asking too much.

q: If you had one wish for the ride what would it be.

a: The impact isn't a flash in the pan. We want legacy stamped on this event for this disease. It's unfortunate a documentary will not be produced in order that everyone's efforts are timeless, however someone needs to want to take this ball and run with it so it is not a one-off. Researchers are close, funds are what is needed and legacy creates the funds and lasting attention.

q: Biggest concern(s) heading into this event

a: The effort is not justiied by the knowledge of what is happening. We need the message to reach the people who are directly and indirectly impacted by this disease. Yes we are targeting specifically Juvenile Diabetes, but progress at this level will certainly impact Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes as well. The last time we checked, that affects a HUGE audience. People need to understand the much LARGER picture.

q: The people who have surprised you the most

a: Cheryl Wilson Stewart, Kim Hexter, Curtis Christopherson, David Plant, Willie Cromack, Keith Nicoll. NONE of the aforementioned have a child or relative with this affliction yet they have all put their lives on hold, run families, businesses, and personal lives for the past 3-8 months with this cause taking top priority in their day-to-day lives. Unbelievable.

Team Players

Today the Team was given a big boost. Media will be launched across the country with the big push towards our September 10th departure now only a mere 14 days away [we ride on the 14th but we leave on the 10th]. But this wasn't the big news...

Another company is on board. AMEC has given the go ahead to promote within their ranks, via Erin Irwin, one of Team H2V's big supporters. She has been granted permission to work on Team H2V to support the charity drive within our country. AMEC is an engineering firm that world wide has as many as 30,000 employees and Erin's job is to make sure everyone knows about Team H2V.

First we want to thank Erin for her belief in the cause and then we want to thank AMEC for realizing that business is forever if you make a difference in the world. We believe this decision makes a difference.

Just another day where something happens that one would never expect. The power of team players all over the world making the goal of eliminating Juvenile Diabetes happen. Truly outstanding and beyond our wildest expectations.

Get your team rolling now so you can see the power of human spirit in full flight.

No Holiday from Diabetes.

So I have to admit, after working a fairly feverish pace for the past few months I was looking forward to a bit of a holiday. I was looking forward to a break from the office and from the relentless flow of email with respect to the planning of H2V.

Every summer our family heads Thetis Island for our annual retreat - my mom, brother, sister and all their kids. We spend our days swimming (Pilkey Point is preferred), crabbing, fishing, biking, volley ball, having ice-cream at the Marina and card games and spoons into the late evening. I think the parents enjoy it as much as the kids. No TV’s, no schedules, no appointments – just time to play.

As we were sitting on the Kuper Is Ferry almost at Thetis I received an email from a friend that completely surprised me. My friends Dale and Pam’s daughter Margaux has just been diagnosed with type 1. I couldn’t believe it – Dale and Pam have been very helpful in providing great advise in the planning of our event and now they are dealing with helping their daughter navigate the demands of type 1 diabetes.

I remembered back to that day when Taylor was diagnosed and remembered how angry I was, that my daughter was going to be faced with a life altering illness, and as the endocrinologist told me she will have it the rest of her life OR until we find a cure. Well I certainly was not going to let my daughter live with this the rest of her life. And it was from that day that I made a promise that I was going to do everything that I could to find a cure for Taylor before she graduated from high school.

I am comforted to see that Dale and Pam share the same passion and commitment for fixing things that aren’t right. They have already started the work that is required to help find a cure. They have set-up a special donation page for Margaux, of which all proceed will go to H2V/JDRF. https://www.jdrf.ca/index.cfm?fuseaction=ride.pledge&participant_id=758442A4-A239-5631-5AD6D0B7E8D97252
Please forward this link to friends and family and make a donation and let Margaux know that we are all behind her and the other kids living with Type 1.

So back to Thetis Island – most mornings I would head out early and catch the 1st ferry off the Island so I could log some miles and get my hours in the saddle. If I stayed on the island I would have to ride from the North point to the south point 9 times to log 100K – pretty boring and to many hills. So I would ride from Chemanis down to Nanaimo or up to Mill Bay and all the little the little side streets in between, like Yellow Point. It was so nice to have a change of scenery.

One day when I was heading back to the Island I noticed another rider and fellow islander – his name is Steen. Steen is a true inspiration. He has his tricked out Trek road bike with carbon hubs and full race kit onboard. Steen at the young age of 60 is still racing time trials in Squamish and has ridden across America. We had the polite conversation about biking and then I mentioned my big adventure and gave him one of my H2V cards. The trip is brief so we didn’t have time to talk and off we went in our own directions. That night I received an email from Steen. I have to thank Steen for his kind comments and encouragement for our ride, I also found out that Steen has three nieces in Burnaby, all of which have with type 1.

On my last day of riding I thought to my self (lots of time to think) just how prevalent and devastating this disease is. I very seldom get through a discussion about H2V with people that doesn’t end up with them telling me they have diabetes, their sibling or family member has diabetes or their best friend has diabetes. Canada has the 3rd highest rate of juvenile diabetes in the world and it is increasing by 3-5% per year with the greatest rise occurring in 5-9 year olds? Diabetes (type 1 & 2) is the one single disease that has the ability to collapse our health care system.

So yes I had a fantastic holiday with my family – lots of fun times and memories. Unfortunately diabetes was with me the whole time as well – just a constant reminder of what we are doing and why we are doing it.

To raise awareness, raise money and find a cure for this pervasive and insidious disease.

Rider talk.

Willie Cromack

q: How has this experience positively impacted you thus far?

a: Team H2V has positively impacted my life in so many ways they are tough
to list. On a personal level I have grow in my organization, personal
fitness, and I have also been able to do things which I would probably never
have had the opportunity to do...like be in Time Magazine! I am humbled
every day by people that continue to give and this has had a great impact on
my life as I have learned more about what I feel life is all about...helping
others. Our business has been rewarded with fantastic exposure as a
residual effect and I have been able to practice what I preach...which is to
show and live that you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

q: what has surprised you the most thus far?

a: I am absolutely blown away by the many people that have put their lives
on hold to pursue a team goal and be a part of a dynamic group. There are
so many people that have made this story come true it is surreal. There are
at least 5 people that have essentially quit their jobs to be full-time Team
H2Vers. Incredible and inspirational.

q: if you had one wish for the ride, what would it be?

a: My one wish is that the word truly gets out that 5 riders have decided
to raise a serious amount of money and awareness for a great cause. I
really hope that the huge task in front of us is enough to propel North
American media to expose this charity and help us eliminate Juvenile
Diabetes once and for all.

q: what is your biggest concern

a: Currently my biggest concern is politics getting in the way of Team
H2V's hard work. I hope that we can roll smoothly from city to city without
problems on the road or with authorities. Team H2V must get though!

q: who has surprised you the most?

a: I am honoured and blessed to be working with people like Cheryl
Wilson-Stewart, who has taken our story and made it her personal mission to
deliver it. While this isn't a surprise to me now that I know the person, I
am consistently surprised that people like her exist at all. For me this
ride has quickly moved from just a ride for children with Juvenile Diabetes
to both a charitable mission and a place where we can help others realize
that people like Cheryl are what we need to build the foundation of our
communities on. Thank you Cheryl and if we haven't said it before we really
appreciate you

The Venturi effect...

The Venturi effect is an example of Bernoulli's principle, in the case of fluid flow through a tube or pipe with a constriction in it. The fluid velocity must increase through the constriction to satisfy the equation of continuity, while its pressure must decrease due to conservation of energy: the gain in kinetic energy is supplied by a drop in pressure or a pressure gradient force. The effect is named after Giovanni Battista Venturi, (1746–1822), an Italian physicist

So basically what I’m attempting to illustrate here is increase in speed of life as we move closer to our common goal. All the huge concepts and vast responsibilities are headed towards our departure date and the speed at which we are facing our challenge is developing exponentially. Everything must fit into this little box on the calendar (Sept 10th) and nothing can be left behind. We only have one shot here and all our ducks must be lined up in a neat (now large) row.

A rest week last week had me; trail running, playing tennis, hiking and picking berries in the mountains...wait, the rest week is complete and it’s time to jump on the bike! Yikes, so many little projects on the go and now what seems like so little time.

Life is so rewarding when one is forced to focus on the main task at hand and produce high level results. Being prepared is the best bet and planning is key.

If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.

H2V is not only a ride, not only a step in the right direction for its time...but is a microcosm of true life lessons for the masses. Take note world, live it and love it. The time is now to step laterally and give back unconditionally. Set some small achievable goal, work through the adversity and flourish in your victory!

Hello From Iron Man Canada..

Sun!! I love the Sun...There is something about riding your bike for 3 hours in 30 degree weather that can only make you smile. We have had two great training rides up, big climbs, sunshine, bears, crazy dogs, you name it you will find it up here.

Bryan and myself from the team are up here at IMC for the next 10 days, we are working in the North Shore Athletics Multi Sport Tent and assisting on Race day for the Run.

It is great being surrounded by so many athletic minded people, everyone excited about their big day coming up, every body in a good mood, every on buying merchandise from us.

During the past few days i have been shocked at how many people have heard of Team H2V and our epic journey that is coming up, and once people find out that Bryan and myself are two of the team they get totally jazzed. It is really amazing when you sit back and think that someone that lives on the other side of the world has heard about Team H2V from a family member that sent them an email. We have been showing our fantastic videos to everyone that comes through our tent and you always see a tear.

Well thats all i have for now, back to the athletes who need our help......

Ciao for now, and don't forget to get your tickets for our Good bye party on the 6th, it will be great to hang with you all one more time before we go.

Keith

Rider talk.

Richard Alm.

q: How has this experience positively impacted you thus far?

a: This experience has positively impacted me in many ways.
Just focusing on a goal is a very powerful thing for anyone
to do. If you have never set a goal and followed through, I
highly recommend it. The goal can be anything, which makes
the concept so difficult for some. But setting small
achievable goals to start is the best way to set oneself up
for success.

Also, meeting so many amazing people along the way. At
different functions or even people recognizing us from the
exposure so far. Having touched someone and then having
that person thank or express themselves to you is a great
feeling.

q: if you had one wish for the ride, whatwould it be?

a: My one wish for the ride to for everyone to be safe. The
obvious wish is for complete success across the board from
funds raised to riding into Stanley Park. But first and
foremost, I wish for everyone to make it home to his or her
loved ones.

q: what is your biggest concern

a: My biggest concern heading into this adventure would be the
possibility that the entire world doesn?t hear or see it.
This is such a huge attempt and the impact is so great. All
we need is for everyone to take a couple moments out of his
or her life to take witness, pay it forward and share the
knowledge.

q: who has surprised you the most?

a: The one person who has surprised me the most
during this event is Kyle. But to be honest, I?m not that
surprised. But what I really am is so proud. I am proud to
know him, proud to be apart of the team that he is on and
proud for his family, namely Taylor. Kyle is a wonderful
man and his reaction will be felt by all when we roll into
Stanley Park. Keep your cameras focused on him!

One Goal

Well I'm out here in Montreal and I am amongst as passionate a group of people as you'll ever meet. You see I'm on a trade show junket and am among Canada's top 125 best cycling retailers. Now don't get me wrong these people are smart and very savvy individuals but above all their business panache is their undying love/lust for cycling.

I have presented our Team H2V story to most of the people here and the response has been incredible. Many have heard of our inspirational goal already and while most of these business owners already give too much time to their communities in the way of charitable work, they have all been so positive about coming out and supporting the cause.

I have said it once and I will continue to believe that as long as you can build strong teams of people then you can accomplish anything.,

Team H2V is growing again, and this time the individuals will themselves take their passion for bikes and charity around Canada to build the team further and further.

Keep those donations coming and the message circulating. there isn't a moment to lose and none of us can let up.

2.5 hrs through the Montreal suburbs training today. The size of this epic journey is starting to sink in. We can do it....as a Team.

It’s Time

I am in my tenth year of being a parent of a child with type 1 diabetes and never have I ever felt the opportunity and promise of making significant headway in fighting this disease, than I do now!

As you now know, Because of H2V I have had the fortunate opportunity of meeting people from across Canada and the US who are working to make a difference. We are all commonly working to raise awareness for type 1 diabetes and raise money to fund research to finding a cure for this disease.

As mentioned in previous blog entries, we have had the opportunity of meeting Team Type one for the USA. The winners of the 2007 Race Across America. I am absolutely blown away at the level of professionalism they bring and the great work they are doing. The amount of awareness and the money they are raising is a huge contribution to the cause. I sincerely hope to see them on the road with team H2V.

I am also continually inspired by the smaller efforts of individual children and families who are collecting money through lemon aid stands or bottle drives at their schools. I am continually encouraged when I here from supporters that they have met with the local support groups and extend their appreciation and tell me they will see us road side and help cheer us through their communities.

I am also touched by individual parent who are stepping up to the plate. Last week I had the pleasure of meeting Michael Leblanc. Michael is in the same boat that I am in. He has a 7 ½ year old daughter suffering from type 1 who was diagnosed at 2 and a half. He is a father willing to make a difference. Michael is an avid cyclist and will be bringing his peloton from Moncton to help pull Team H2V.

This morning I had the fortunate opportunity of being a guest and speaking to the White Rock Rotary chapter. They absolutely blew me away by their interest and willingness to help our cause. (I think there is something in the water out there) My friend Norm (now best friend) proposed to the group that they start a national challenge with all the other rotary clubs across the country, to either match or beat the dollars that they have raised as a group. Thank you very much to Norm and all his fellow White Rock Rotarians for the incredible support.

Never have I felt this big of opportunity to make a difference for all the kids living with type 1.

Everyone has to realize that we now have an incredible opportunity at hand and we have to capitalize on that opportunity.

Now is the time to make some noise, shake some trees and stomp our feet and raise the dollars that the researchers need to finish the job.

So large or small, loud or quietly please consider how you can hitch your wagon to the team H2V locomotive.

Thanks,

My blogs have had common themes…our time is upon us…training is tuff.
This train is not stopping and it will soon be our time to shine. To lead and challenge ourselves across Canada. With glowing torches we will push ourselves through the night. A source of light for those who must deal with Juvenile Diabetes everyday of their lives. It will be our time to step up to the plate after months of planning and many others pushing the pace just to get us ready for this epic journey.
Behind us we are so lucky to have as many volunteers as we have. Behind those volunteers are our personal friends and family who are supporting us along the way. Each of these special people has felt our commitment first hand.
As an example, I personally have only seen my Dad a handful of times this year. Each time we see each other it’s special, but because of the training and my tight schedule, our time together is far and few between. But every time we’re featured in some print, radio or television he’ll call me up and tell me that he’s proud of me and that he is looking forward to riding into Stanley Park with us. He reads my blogs and always sends an email with a compliment. Thanks Dad! Your unconditional support helps keep me focused.
I also have a sister and a Mother. My sister is super busy and our relationship is very special to me. She is usually flying around the world or busy downtown She too always sends me a note or calls me with a coffee in hand as she’s getting on a plane half way around the world. She’s my big sister and when she calls me and tells me how impressed she is of me for taking on so much it makes me want to try harder and be the best brother I can be. Thanks Erika!
My Mum has faired a bit better in terms of visits. She lives close to my work and therefore has been playing a major role in supporting me during this busy time. I try to spend a night at her house every couple weeks. Wonderful conversation, food, convenient laundry and peace. I couldn’t imagine attempting such a huge undertaking without her support. Thanks Mum!
I am so lucky to have my health and to have been given the opportunity to give back. A short timeline of extra effort in the grand scheme of things. I mean, how hard is this really? Not that difficult. We all sacrifice, I guess it’s where and when do you want to do it and how much effort one will put towards it.
So, what are you going to do? How about telling 10 friends and asking them to tell 10 friends etc. You’ve heard it before and it’s really no big deal. We are changing history and you are now apart of that by reading this blog. Help us push the pace and don’t let this message stop here.
Thanks!

Switching gears by switching focus.

The base training is officially over, as mentioned by Richard last week. We had long distance rides over the weekend with many of us enjoying different experiences (changing road bikes out for mountain bikes and in some cases including family & friends in our training regimes). Now, the focus is on rest & recovery.

At the same time, the mental & logistical focus is ramping up, as Willie eluded to yesterday. We are approaching our departure goal of ¾ million, however we are not there yet. The riders are engaged in a number of pre ride fundraisers that include a day at the Hexter’s in Whiterock Sept 2nd and our Sept 6th launch party. Each of us is also diligently working to meet and exceed our personal goals for off and on line donations. We have solicited family, friends, former friends and friends of friends in attempts to get the word out as expansively as possible.

The most challenging component of the next month is circumnavigating people, groups and organizations who will try to impede our progress (unintentionally of course). There just isn’t time for this and as disappointing as it has been with people falling short on their talk and or reneging on their promises we are fortunate to have positive people who focus on the worthy.

21 volunteers (including riders)will depart in 28th days to accomplish one of the most memorable & impactful events of their lives. When the rubber hits the road, there is only 1 focus; arriving in Vancouver on Sept 22nd with over 1 million dollars in the bank. Over the next few weeks we will profile the riders as part of our people behind the push section.

Stay Tuned. Stay focused. Stay dialed.

Calling all Leaders

To: Anyone Who Is a Member of Team Juvenile Diabetes
From: Team H2V
Subject: Be the Leader

To All Would Be Leaders,

Welcome to a new stage in your life. Today is the day you decide that Juvenile Diabetes is a blessing and not a curse. Today is the day you take the challenge set forth before you and decide that it will not beat you but make you stronger. Today is the day that you show all the "normal" people that you can do more, accomplish greater things, involve the highest number of people, and you can help the world because you are smart and strong.

Today is the day you become a leader.

There will be no more whining about how you wish it was. There will be only a job to do; tell the story of how you will fight to cure Juvenile Daibetes, build an army of people to help you, and so you can help those who need it.

Today is the day and you are being called forth to take the oath. You will make sure everyone knows what to do and how to act. Your army will be ready for battle. A battle you must surely win. A battle that will no doubt be difficult but will make you strong and help you find out how much "heart" you really have.

You must build the team. You must persevere. You must believe.

You are the leader and your age is of very little consequence to the above three items.
Today it starts and the energy, passion, desire for a cure, need to help must never, ever fade. Your legacy must be passed to others so they can carry the torch higher and longer.

Little babies and small children are counting on your work.

What will you do today to make sure you become that leader? Start now please...

Taking Donations to a Whole New Level...

At the White Rock IF First Anniversary, an auction item for "A day with Younger and Curtis" was bought by the lucky Kim Hexter:

That auction item soon turned to a day with the H2V boys + Curtis...Here is what Kim has in mind: "So I'm thinking party day at Casa de Hexter, where Team H2V serves up some bevies, cleans the pool in their favorite speedos, barbeques some burgers, puts some sunscreen on the backs of as many IF White Rock customers as possible who will be invited to come by during the day for a fee."

So, all you White Rock IF'ers, get in contact with Curtis and come out to support the Team in a way most others will not see us. There will also be a car wash and breakfast to raise money for Team H2V...trust me, the day will be full of surprises that you will not want to miss.................

So close!

Just a 3hour long slow distance ride tomorrow and then we enjoy a rest week. It seems like yesterday that we were doubling up on our rides and drinking all of our calories through our water bottles!
For the time remaining before we take flight to Halifax, we are now concerned with rest and recovery. We are finished with our big training and maintenance is now on the menu. The more rest we can acquire the better. Creating these healthy habits will provide our batteries to be fully charged and will decrease the chance of injury before we leave.
A workout or two per week in the gym is fine. That means, core work, hip stability, flexibility and glute stability. Nothing crazy difficult, nothing high impact and nothing anaerobic. Sounds nice…well, sounds scary because all it means is that the inevitable count down is ticking away and all of us are starting to get a little nervous. No lie. We are all a little nervous now and rightfully so. We are so close, yet so far…so close to starting and yet so far from the over 6000km goal in 9 days.

But when asked, ‘can you do it?’ the answer is always, ‘you betcha!’

Anxiety....Weather....

Wow...I just realized it was August 6th...I woke up at about 3 am in the full on sweats, oh my god i am about to ride across the country on my bike...I opened a bottle of Pinot Gris (my favourite summer wine) and started thinking more and more about my bike ride as i consumed this delicous beverage...Can i do it? Can i wake up at 2 am in the pissing rain and ride my bike for 3 hours in the dark...Dodging Moose, Deer, Mosquitos the size of Sparrows (in Manitoba)...Truckers...People in a hurry on the Highway...All the little things that i haven't thought about started creeping into my little brain...This entire year i have been so focussed on the training and the food ( my little role in this journey)...Make sure we have enough food, enough fuel, and make sure that i train smart enough that when September roles around that i am ready to go and go hard...But like any other Race (that is how i am looking at it a Race, we are in a race across the country and we are in a race to cure J.D.) you start thinking about weird things...If you have ever gone to watch Iron Man you know what i mean...No matter how well you prepare you start thinking about small things...So those were my small things, weird but they were my concerns...After sitting on the deck of my friends cottage for two hours and finishing the bottle of wine i was feeling better, much better...I went back to bed and thought no problems, this baby is in the bag....

But oh wait....

The entire training the other little tidbit that has been sitting on the teams mind has been the weather...Especially this year because the weather has been totally bizarre...Hail in Calgary in August (the size of tennis balls), Snow at Lake Louise in July, Snow at the Toll Booth in July, 45 degree heat in Toronto...and finally Rain and wind like you have never seen the likes of before on The 97c coming home this weekend...I was driving home Tuesday night, it was about midnight and i was cruising along nicely on the connector, it had been a beutifull night drive and i started thinking this would be a beutifull night ride, what a lucky person someone will be who gets to do this wicked climb and descent...Not 15 minutes later the Gods attacked..Wind so strong ( a head wind) that the speed signs we horizontal, rain so hard that i couldnt' see the road in front of me...This lasted until i got to Hope, that is about 180k of some of the worst driving i have ever been in during my tiny existence on this planet...I went from "wow what beutifull ride" to "oh my god the poor sucker who is riding in this is going to be scared"...

After waking up my wife and chatting with her about my concerns she talked me down a bit, and we chatted about adversity, conquering, victory, and goals. All strong words that mean a lot me...Not unlike the families that have to deal with JD every day....I guess we just take what life has given us and deal with it as we move along...

There is nothing any of us can on Team H2V except Drive, Support, Fundraise, Ride and do our part to hlep find a cure for J.D. on the way.


Look forward to our Send off on September 6th, hope to see you all there....

Keith

The People Behind The Push

Name: Tom Fagan

My responsibility is to be one of the chief mechanics and drivers in the mechanical support vehicle. Three of us will drive directly in front of the riders to help cut wind as well as monitor their progress mechanical and for nutrition. We will need to be very attentive as we have to drive at the exact pace of the rider for the entire country and this is an area we as drivers are very concerned with but will make happen at the best of our abilities. After 5 days this is going to get mighty tiring. Prior to the ride we have been maintaining the bikes and making sure that every Argon 18 bike is working perfectly so that the riders can train and work out as much as they need without worry.

I became involved with this ride because I am a head mechanic at John Henry Bikes and my co-worker & boss, Willie Cromack, is one of the riders. He asked me if I would donate my time to this great cause and it was a no-brainer for me to sign up and help out in any way I could.

The reason I wanted to get involved was because I have a son myself and to know that others in the world have children that aren’t 100% physically makes me feel very humbled and happy to know I am blessed to have my son. I want to be a part of helping any family and any child on the planet so that they can feel and have the life they deserve.

My biggest concern about the ride is safety and weather as well as being able to drive at the necessary pace of the riders for the entire 6000 + kilometres. I am also concerned with making sure the bikes make it!

The first thing I will do when I get to Stanley Park is jump right into the ocean and thank god that the land isn’t moving! Then I will celebrate with all the Team H2V riders and support crew who all will definitely be serving a beer or two.

Fagan is ready!!!

A Call to Action

The logistics are nearly set.
The training will do nothing more than maintain the levels that have been attained already.
The drivers are prepared.
The sponsors have been determined.
The advertising is moving into overdrive.
The public relations campaign is moving forward.

And all of this done while summer sashays by with its very lackadaisical demeanor.

There is still so much to do!

The goal: aim high and shoot for millions of dollars in donations. We need to engage the public. We need everyone to stand up and take notice.

This is a call to everyone reading this. You are the solution to this ground swell. You can help. Tell everyone you know that each and every dollar counts. A single dollar raised per person in Canada would be over $30,000,000.00 and over $300,000,000.00 if you considered North America.

$1 is all it takes. Each person embracing this initiative is important. Each person is giving at the level they are comfortable with. The problem is they don't know about this epic ride.

Tell ten friends and encourage and challenge them to tell ten of their friends. Collect coins, paper, cheques, cans or get them to donate online at www.teamh2v.com.

Together we can make a huge difference.

What is your goal?
How many people can you add to the H2V train of donation disciples?

We really want you on the team. Your contribution in time, effort and ultimately money is as important as any member of the squad.

Thanks for the support.

Our biggest supporter.

Today I would like to introduce you to one of H2V’s biggest fans and Taylor’s biggest supporter.
I would like to introduce you to Lauren Balagno.
Lauren is Taylor’s little sister. She is 8 years old and she has been at Taylor’s side through highs and lows (literally). Lauren has lived with the day to day management issues of her sisters type 1 diabetes from the day she was born. If Taylor is having a bad day or something is not going well and our day is taking a detour so we can manage her sisters blood glucose, Lauren has always been a very patient and supportive little sister. It happens on days when they are getting ready to go to school, it happens on weekends when we are planning to have some fun family time and it happens on holidays. When ever it happens Lauren is always a trooper and helps her sister to get through the rough patches.

Lauren is also on the H2V marketing Team. From the day H2V was announced Lauren has told her teachers, neighours, swim coach, dentist and strangers about her sisters and Dads big adventure. We don’t have a visitor over without having Lauren show all the videos before they leave. She is usually pretty good about collecting donations as well.

Thank you Lauren for your sisterly support and love.

On to business.

There are two very important dates coming up.

Sept 6, 2007 – the Official Vancouver Send off party, being hosted at So Cial at Le Magasin Restaurant in Gastown. We invite all supporters. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased from our website. If you are not able to attend but would like to make a donation you can always do that through our website as well. Its going to be a special night – we welcome your support.

Sept 14 – Ride Kick off in Halifax. If you live on the other side of this vast nation of ours, and we will soon find out how vast it is, we welcome you to join us at our official dipping of the tires and start of our ride at Point Pleasant Park, Black Point Beach. Ceremonies start at 7:45

All the details for these two significant event can be found on our website.

Thanks again for your continued support.

Kyle

Solo...

This week has been busy. Not just with training, but with family and work related duties. The team hasn’t seen much of each other lately. Wow, I actually miss them! Just kidding, of course I miss the team. We have grown together and have built on our biking base for many months while training. This weekend we are all away from Vancouver in various spots. Camping, golfing or at cabins…the team is spending time away from the bikes and taking a couple moments for ourselves.
But next week, we will not be solo; we will be back in action and ramping up our time in the saddle once again. As of right now we are 38 days away! Whoa, we are 37 sleeps until we start and then in a blink of an eye, we will complete this epic journey.

Dedication and perseverance has brought us together and will lead us to the finish line. But for many, these qualities must last a lifetime for dealing with their juvenile diabetes. I am honored to be apart of this experience and respect the consistency one with JD must adhere to. There is no taking time off when dealing with JD, only one day at a time…step-by-step and careful management.
Team Coast to Coast is here to push the pace of research in the hopes to find a cure for Juvenile Diabetes…psst…pass it on.

6 weeks

The bike shop is starting to buzz.

"When are you leaving?"
"You guys are crazy!"

"Where can I donate...."

The last statement is the most important one for us because this is the reason we have put the time in and this is the reason we can talk ad nauseum about the ride and all the possible pitfalls. Team H2V is in the stretch drive but we are only really getting started with the awareness campaign.

Only getting started! What are you talking about I hear you say...

It's true. For many of the people on the inside we are almost bored of the topic, tired of riding all the time and quite convinced that because we are brainwashed with the message that everyone else in the world must also be. But the truth is that this message is just starting to break the surface and we need it to make it to the general population.

So this is a shout for more help and to help us push it right until the day we arrive back in Vancouver.

TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW ABOUT TEAM H2V.

It will take an army of people repeating the message and making others aware for it to captivate the entire country.

So while John Henry Bikes seems to have a buzz we will keep reminding people of why we are doing it, what the results should be and how they can help.

Tell your friends, Team H2V is coming to a town near you...

...and we want your money:)