Good afternoon, everyone.
Back on 22 April I posted a message wherein I shared plans to cycle cross country in honor of my late wife Leslie while raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer outreach and research. I'm sorry to advise that this attempt came to an unfortunate and unplanned end last Tuesday.
I went down hard on the unpaved C&O Canal Trail just outside Cumberland, MD. I tried to keep going, hoping the increasing pain in the ribs and scuffed right side would subside, but was unable to manage it. Sleeping on the ground, waking up damp in 38 F weather and riding in the rain didn't help. So, after another three days and 160 miles I gave it up in Pittsburgh, where I knew I could find a shop to pack and ship the bike home and a plane to ship me.
I've spent the last week wearing a hole in the sofa with contused, but not broken, ribs, and sleeping around 18 hours/day. I did share the jist of this development with my nationwide sponsors and those I knew to have a particular interest, but I should have also sent this message to you, the general VBC membership. My energy levels are, however, a bit low. What prompted my doing so now is that some members have very kindly donated to the cause since my coming in off the road. I feel very badly that my going dark this past week and failure to update everyone has misrepresented the opportunity. While the need is still there, my ability to promote it by completing the ride is not.
Thanks again for all the support and now, for your understanding. I hope to see you on the road in the near future. Until then,
Tailwinds,
Tom Eggers