Close But No Cigar, Part V: The Other Side of the Coin
A Note from Fatty: After four days of me going on and on and on and on about what it was like to ride the Leadville 100 last weekend, I’m finally giving Susan a chance to tell her story of what it was like to come to Leadville and crew.
To Crew or Not to Crew
I’d been looking forward to crewing for Elden since we made our plan last year. As the time got closer, I worried that I may have been a bit overoptimistic. I seemed to get tired just looking at dishes in the sink and laundry on the floor. But still I didn’t want to miss out on the epic adventure that Leadville always turned out to be.
I had only been once before — back in 2000 — and we had brought the boys with us that time. They were just 5 and 7 years old back then, so that was an adventure in and of itself. This year it would just be the two of us and I knew if I bailed – even if it was for a legitimate reason (cancer) — I would regret it in a big way.
Truth be told, I really wanted to be there for Elden, and some stupid disease wasn’t going to stop me.
Leadville and Friends
Lucky for me, everyone we met was super supportive, and the altitude was only hard when I was going up the ridiculously steep hotel stairs. So, on the whole I got to do much more than I expected…and I was less whiney than I had feared I would be.
I loved arriving in Leadville a couple of days before the race. We saw lots of friends and I realized again how lucky Elden is to have such a great group of guys to ride with and hang out with. And all of us wives got along great, as well. The night we arrived, we had a huge gathering at the restaraunt across the street from our hotel. The food wasn’t great, but I don’t think I’ve laughed so much in a long time.
The Morning Arrives
After a couple days to adjust to altitude, the day of the race dawned. Can I just say that I was probably as nervous and nauseous as Elden. I bet neither of us had more than a few hours of sleep. I tried to make myself catch a few more minutes of rest as Elden scrambled to get everything ready, but it was pointless.
I waited until the last minute to go out and cheer the riders off, though, so I didn’t have to stand for too long. I waved good luck to Elden, Rick S. and Brad, all bunched together, full of nervous energy.
It was quite a sight when the shot rang out and a thousand riders surged forward in anticipation.
After the street cleared, I joined Rachelle (Rick S’s wife, left), Sarah (Nick’s wife, second from left), and Natalie (Kenny’s wife, right) and we ate a bite of breakfast. They were wearing pink jerseys and I was happy and embarrassed at the same time. So very nice of them.
No, I didn’t wear a jersey to support myself. I just felt too weird about that.
Soon after, we hopped in our cars and zoomed off to the Twin Lakes aid station to set up our crew area.
Twin Lakes
We set up at a sort of secret spot that was off from the actual aid station. Natalie has been there every year for nine years straight. This year, though, the secret must have leaked out, or else it was a result of so many more people coming this year to see Floyd, or hoping for a last minute Lance. The narrow dirt road was already packed and we had to park on the other side of the lane, which would leave only a narrow area for the riders to pass through. Yikes. But no one told us to go and I had no ability to walk a long way, so we stayed. Soon the whole road was packed with cars on both sides.
We got out our stuff and set up chairs under an awning (Thanks for setting that up, Fish!), and waited. We all brought things to do – books, knitting, magazines – but hardly ended up doing anything.
We watched. We waited.
Sarah, Rochelle and I got antsy and inexplicably anxious. Not Natalie. She’s a pro by now. And she was crewing for Kenny, Chucky and Brad, while the other three of us just had one person: our respective husbands.
We watched the leaders fly by: Floyd in second, and we cheered for all who went by. It was great when the riders would smile and look encouraged by our shouts and encouragement. However, some just looked grumpy and put off, swearing and sour-faced. And this was before the Columbine climb. What was up with that? (I know, I know, I’m not a biker. I wouldn’t understand.)
Our Riders
Finally, after Kenny and Chucky flew by, I got my camera out to take some photos of Brad, who I figured would be ahead of Elden and Rick.
And then they all zoomed in at once. I clicked the camera out of habit, getting a picture of Brad’s knees (and Rachelle’s back), before I could toss the camera to Sarah and ask her to take some pictures while I crewed.
Meantime, Elden was having a panic attack because he couldn’t see me. Poor guy. After we found each other, he dutifully drank his soup, took his other ‘on the road’ food, and new water bottles.
In a matter of seconds, Elden, Brad, and Rick were off again. And then I could breathe again. Sheesh. Crewing is way more nerve-wracking than I thought.
I sat back and cheered and took pictures of pink jerseys (it was so cool how many people wore pink. Thank You All!) until my stupid camera told me the battery was getting low. Already?!
Nick came in and Sarah took good care of him as I snapped pictures with her camera. He was in a good mood and happy with his time so far, too. Dug blew by with his handle bar streamers and basket, and I couldn’t tell he had already had some bad luck what with the no handed pose and grin.
Bob passed us and he was laughing, for crying out loud. I would never have guessed at his story by the look I saw on his face then. He looked like he was having a blast. I loved seeing all our friends go by: Bry, Linde, Jolene, Lisa (she had a big smile — I was so mad that my lame camera decided not to focus), Scott, and Rich. People around us were asking: “How many riders were we supporting anyway?†“Lots!†We laughed.
Fish and his friends were supporting even more riders there under the awning. It was amazing to be a part of such a huge crew.
Second Pass
Finally, the leaders raced back through, going the other way, and we saw a flash of Dave, followed by a blur of Floyd. It looked like Floyd had turfed it on his right side. Ouch. Our riders followed a while later, one at a time now, the field having spread out a lot after climbing and descending Columbine.
Elden showed up and refused to eat. Of course, I tried to chide him into obeying his own plan, but to no avail. The nasty, salty margarita shot bloks had effectively destroyed his will to eat. I let him go reluctantly with the few remaining cran razz shot bloks in his back pocket.
I had tried to give him extra food in case I missed him at the next aid station. Getting there quick enough frightened me a bit and I didn’t want him to mess up his race because of me. He just shrugged the extra food off and told me solemnly, “Don’t miss me.â€
Eeek.
Pipeline Aid Station
My wonderful friends helped me pack my truck and I cautiously maneuvered my way down the choked lane, pulling over constantly to give way to the riders flying down the road toward me. I tore down the highway to the Pipeline aid station armed with a note from Merilee, the race director, which said I could park in an official spot. That way I didn’t have to lug all my stuff from forever away to the specified crewing area.
I was panicking all the way there, looking at the time, hoping I’d make it before Elden. Oh, I also had Brad’s bag, since Natalie took off to support Kenny at the Pipeline aid station before Brad went by the Twin Lakes aid station, and I feared that I would miss Brad for sure.
I couldn’t figure out where to go for my “official spot†and lucked out on a parking place right by a plastic net guarding the race course. I saw Natalie; Kenny had already gone by. She hiked Brad’s bag up to the aid station and I planted myself at the fence.
I got yelled at by a big, intimidating worker saying that I was not allowed to crew there. To which I forced my normally-unassertive self to yell back, lifting my cane and pointing to my bald, bandanaed head: “Do I look able to walk to you?†He backed down when he realized I was the one Merilee had warned him about. Thank goodness. I plopped back down in relief.
Elden came by soon after and I tried again to get him to eat his soup, but salty food was making him gag. I let him pass with more water and that was it. He said he still had a chance for under nine and I told him to go for it and he sped away.
Natalie helped me keep from taking out at least three cars as I tried to back out of that crowded parking area. So many people had double parked in a frantic effort to get to their riders in time.
We headed back to the hotel. My stomach starting to unclench as I realized I had been able to do everything that I wanted to do. I had had a much more physically stress-filled day than I could remember since I had started chemo. But I had done it, and Elden was doing incredibly well. It was a good feeling as I cruised back to town.
The Home Stretch
Natalie helped me lug my stuff back to the hotel and, even without the extra burdens, I felt like I took two hours getting up the stairs and to the room. I wanted to go see the first riders come in, but my energy had been completely zapped. Natalie said she heard the cheer as Dave Wiens crossed the finish line in first place just as she got into her room. Oh well. I think that was about one-thirty, maybe.
I dragged myself out to the finish line around three-fifteen. Kenny had already crossed the finish line. I was hoping Elden would make it before three-thirty. So many of us were waiting and counting down the minutes.
As you know by now, he was a bit late. I thought he did fantastic anyhow, and I was so proud to have crewed for him. I tried to hang out for some of our other friends to come in, wasted though I was.
My friend Rich, bless his heart, hiked back to my truck and brought back my folding chair. I collapsed into it and could hardly move, even when people crossed the finish line. After an hour or so, I had had it and I left. I missed seeing Nick come in. Sorry. And Lisa and Bob.
On the way back to the hotel, I saw Floyd chatting casually with a family in front of me so I slowed down and stuck out my hand when he had finished. Didn’t get a picture. But a handshake was nice. He was more personable than he needed to be and I was impressed that he stayed around after the race at all. Wonder if Lance would have done that?
After Effects
I went back to the hotel, took all manner of pain meds, and stayed in bed for about fifteen hours. I missed the brats party, the award ceremony, and saying good-bye to most everyone. But I had had an amazing time.
I was so glad to be part of my husband’s annual tradition. What an adventure.
I hope I can come back next year. I might even have hair and be able to ditch my cane. That would be something. Besides, next year, when Elden can stop using all his energy worrying about me, I know he really will spank that sub-nine.
Comment by Philthy in Oz | 08.16.2007 | 8:49 pm
Mrs FC, Your effort is easily as courageous and admirable as any of the riders. It would equate to a 6:58:45.
Well done and good luck.
Comment by Caloi-Rider | 08.16.2007 | 8:54 pm
Maybe when there’s no performance anxiety attached to it, a sub-nine will be more viable.
Congratulations, Susan. I’m sure having you there was better for Elden than achieving a sub-nine without you would’ve been. Besides, the end of yesterday’s post sounded much more like triumph than defeat to me.
Comment by Logan | 08.16.2007 | 9:22 pm
You’re awesome. Elden is lucky to have you.
Comment by Glenda | 08.16.2007 | 9:46 pm
I’ll reiterate…Fatty and SUSAN rock! You both WIN! :)
Comment by K | 08.16.2007 | 10:25 pm
how wonderful to finally hear from Mrs.Fatty! The awesomeness of *both* your achievements at Leadville is not lost on me. You are both remarkable people, and an amazing couple. Thanks for writing this up!
Comment by Alex in ZA | 08.16.2007 | 11:03 pm
Well done Mrs Fatty! I concur with Philthy in Oz on your equatable finish time.
Congrats and looking forwarfd to hear your tale next year.
Comment by Born4Lycra | 08.17.2007 | 12:44 am
Magnificent!
Thanks for the report Sue very impressed that it matched with the old boy’s story at all the right places. Hope the kids had a great time at Grandma’s and I look forward to reading your story at Leadville 2008. You really are a winner.
Comment by Yukirin Boy | 08.17.2007 | 1:04 am
To repeat what others have said…
Its wonderful to here the how the day was for Susan in her own words.
reading your story was a bright sunbeam in an otherwise dull day.
Inspirational.
Leadville 2008 will be something else again, I predict. Do I really have to wait a whole year?
Comment by Rinni | 08.17.2007 | 1:05 am
Susan and Fatty, your stories have touched my heart. Thank you for writing them. Sincere congratulations to you both for completing/supporting an epic ride and for chasing after big goals together. Know you have fans in lovely Luxembourg (err, that would be the tiny country between France, Germany and Belgium).
Comment by paige | 08.17.2007 | 3:36 am
Susan and Elden…what a team! You all did your utmost in difficult circumstances and that makes you both heroes, no matter what times, canes, bandanas or fatigue say.
Thanks for letting us into your world for Leadville!
Comment by Big Boned | 08.17.2007 | 3:47 am
HUZZAH!
Nice work Fatty and Susan!
You guys rock!
BB
Comment by Mrs. C. | 08.17.2007 | 3:53 am
Susan, what a teammate you are! I love it that you are not buying his “give up on the goal” thinking and agree that the sub-9 is just a year away. He should listen to you.
I think wearing the pink jersey supporting yourself makes perfect sense. You’re part of the team and those are the team colors. BTW: I’m asking Santa for a pink jersey in my Christmas stocking!
Eldon, maybe the TwinSix guys would make Susan her own special jersey with a different tagline since supporting herself makes her uncomfortable. Maybe: Most Courageous Support Crew. She certainly deserves it. Just a thought.
Comment by Maggi | 08.17.2007 | 4:13 am
Susan, what a great post! You really are an inspiration, and you and Elden make a great team. Thank you for sharing your experience, because it was really awesome to read the story from two different angles. I have never raced– but I crewed for four of my friends in a tri once, and I’m totally impressed with you. I was in phenomenal shape at the time that I crewed, and I was bloody exhausted at the end of the day! Now I read your experience and just feel like maybe I was lazier than I thought. ;)
I agree with Mrs. C above– wearing a pink jersey of your own makes perfect sense!
Comment by TG | 08.17.2007 | 4:43 am
Susan–You are truly one amazing lady! Your courage and determination is an inspiration for us all. We continue sending love and prayers. Keep turning the cranks.
Elden–You have something much better than a sub-nine finish. You have the love and devotion of a very special lady. In my mind, that is far more important than a sub-nine finish time.
Comment by Lowrydr | 08.17.2007 | 4:50 am
Couldn’t say it any better than it’s already been said…..
So to quote Big Boned, with 3 cheers not just one…..
HUZZAH – HUZZAH – HUZZAH !!!!!!!!!!
You guys ROCK.
Comment by Boz | 08.17.2007 | 5:01 am
Having your loved one(s) crew for you at a race is one the greatest things in life. Crewing for a loved one is sometines even beter. One of my clearest race memories was back on ‘77 during a 3 stage race, coming over a crest at the front of the lead break and all of a sudden seeing my parents cheering me on at the side of the road. Up to this point, they never appeared to have any interest in my biking. And this was 150 miles from home! My eyes still well up. I can imagine how Fatty felt under Susan’s circumstance. Eldon, you must be one PROUD MAN.
Pingback by RocBike.com » Links Of The Day: 17 August 2007 | 08.17.2007 | 5:08 am
[...] Close But No Cigar, Part V: The Other Side of the Coin [...]
Comment by gian | 08.17.2007 | 6:08 am
ok, that part I said yesterday about Elden being brave.
Yeah, never mind.
Susan, you are the brave one. And then to add this…
“Besides, next year, when Elden can stop using all his energy worrying about me, I know he really will spank that sub-nine. “…
Elden, you are one lucky SoB.
I wish the best to you and your family.
Comment by Clydesteve | 08.17.2007 | 6:12 am
Susan, it sounds like you left it all on the course, just like Eldon – Sure mark of a winning competitor. Way to assert yourself with the worker that wanted you to park elsewhere! You are from Lake Woebegone, and eat Powdermilk Bisquits, right?
I am still thinking a custom TwinSix FC pink&black WIN bandana should be available.
~~~~~~
Please designate “In honor of Susan” if you find it in your heart to check out my LIVESTRONG Challenge ride, and decide to donate. At least see the nice things I have to say about her at this link:
http://portland07.livestrong.org/spete?faf=1&e=1203797752
Comment by Natalie | 08.17.2007 | 6:26 am
Susan, thanks to you and Elden, Leadville was just like Christmas this year. Kenny and I looked forward to it all year long and I had more fun than ever with so many of Kenny’s riding buddies there and their spouses. You were amazing and I admire you so much!
I know what you mean, I am so grateful for the great group of guys and gals Kenny rides with, they are true friends and a great influence on him. You and Elden are an example to us all of a strong marriage and I am thankful to you for that!
It has been so much fun to be involved in the “Fat Cyclist” group of internet friends. I saw so many Fat Cyclist jerseys at Leadville, and some of the racers even cheered for us as we sat on the sidelines yelling things like, “Go team fatty!”
I can’t wait until next year!
Comment by Bob | 08.17.2007 | 6:51 am
Beautiful report, Susan. You’re truly inspirational. My eyes are welling up for the second time this week.
Comment by dailytri | 08.17.2007 | 7:27 am
You’re a brave soul Susan! I hope I can find a woman equally interesting and inspiring.
Comment by cyclechic | 08.17.2007 | 7:36 am
Wow Susan. You are an amazing selfless woman. The love that Elden has for you is easily apparent in every post he writes. I could see that your love for him is equally strong. Again…you are amazing.
Comment by monkeywebb | 08.17.2007 | 8:02 am
Oi. A great report of a great time makes for great inspiration. Congratualations and thanks.
Comment by JET(not a nickname) | 08.17.2007 | 8:13 am
Awesome…that’s really all that needs to be said.
Comment by Bitter (formerly known as Lissee) | 08.17.2007 | 8:26 am
Aw Susan, you’re going to make me cry.
Glad you made it through the race and that everything ended up going well!
Comment by Mehera | 08.17.2007 | 8:29 am
Susan,
I’ll bet you would trade being inspiring and brave for getting this cancer battle over with and just being strong and healthy. That’s what I’m hanging onto for you. You will still be awesome. :-)
Thanks for your insider’s view of the day. Sounds like quite an experience.
Comment by Caren | 08.17.2007 | 8:37 am
Susan,
You and Elden are both inspirational in many and different ways! Having participated in cycling and walking events and crewing I know that crewing is much more difficult than participating – you are giving all of yourself to every participate the entire event. And to do that between chemo treatments – you are UNBELIEVABLE! I know that doing this year’s Leadville as a team will be highlight for your lives – you should both be proud of your accomplishments!
Being part of “TEAM FATTY” is inspiring in so many ways! It is why I am honored to be walking in the San Diego Breast Cancer 3-Day in your honor!
If any TEAM FATTY member would like to recognize Susan’s fight with a donation to the Komen Foundation you can do so by going to this link:
http://www.the3day.org/sandiego07/carengio
Comment by Rick S. | 08.17.2007 | 8:52 am
Susan,
I’m so glad you made it out to Leadville. It was great to have Rachelle get to know you better. We were all so impressed with you. Every time I saw you, you had a big smile and it rubbed off on the rest of us (expect during the colombine climb of course….dark times for me).
You rock.
Comment by KeepYerBag | 08.17.2007 | 9:07 am
Bravo!
Comment by Den | 08.17.2007 | 9:21 am
Susan, having you there beats a sub 9, every day of the week. You’re an awesome lady!
Comment by Philly Jen | 08.17.2007 | 9:21 am
Ciao, bella!
Thanks for sharing your account of a very great day, and kudos to you for your super crewing. Your smile just lights up the world around you — if I were Chris Carmichael, I’d try to draft off your hugs, too! HUZZAH!
Comment by KT | 08.17.2007 | 9:25 am
Susan, you ROCK. Crewing is as important to racing as the actual racing, and you pulled it off with panache. I echo the Bravos and Huzzahs!
Keep your chin up…. your next destination will be Italy, pain-free!
Comment by mark | 08.17.2007 | 9:31 am
Allez Susan!
Comment by Nick | 08.17.2007 | 9:37 am
Susan – great write up, and it was great to be there with you. Sarah and I had a blast, and we are already planning on next year. I am in awe that you made it through the day, with all the heat, the nerves and stress – great work.
You inspired a lot of us (well me anyway) during the year. See you soon.
Comment by bikemike | 08.17.2007 | 9:38 am
oh great, now i’ve got something in both eyes.
why has this happened the last two days?
oh, i remember,
both of you made me cry, cut it out.
God bless you both. great stories for the grandkids one day.
Comment by Lins - Aust | 08.17.2007 | 10:24 am
Thanks for the write up. We now realise that the crewing side of a race certainly isn’t easy: the rush to get there, the setting up, the anxious waiting, frantic activity then repeat. It all makes for an intense day. Well done on a big day out!
Keep getting better. Best wishes.
Comment by Gill | 08.17.2007 | 10:25 am
Way to go. I’m running a half marathon because of you crazy athletic people. You’re making me feel like a schlump, crewing Susan included. Susan – your sheer determination is a *little* scary; sounds as though if you put your mind to it, you could conquer the world, bwaaa haa haaaaaa. As long as you harness your willpower only for good, and for Leadville, I suppose the world has nothing to fear. Congratulations on your victory – Gillian
Comment by Rider34 | 08.17.2007 | 10:27 am
After 5 days of incredible stories, tremendous courage, and wonderful pictures, Dug had better “bring it!” with his article. Those are some huge shoes to fill.
Love the synopsis. Excellent writing and wit as usual. Keep fighting the good fight Susan.
Fatty will concur the 9 yet. Susan, next year give him something other than Shot Bloks. After the description Fatty gave I won’t drink a Margarita for a LONG time…..
Comment by Barb | 08.17.2007 | 10:28 am
Not to diminish Fatty’s acomplishment, but what you did in the midst of a couple cycles of chemo is phenomenal! I know of where I speak. You go Girl! And I hope he adequately apologized for his mid-bonk growlings at you too….
Comment by Steve | 08.17.2007 | 10:42 am
I’m sure you won’t mind one more voice joining the chorus, Susan. The lyrics say a lot: beautiful story, a remarkable outing, and a great inspiration. It’s easy to see why Elden appreciates you so much. I liked reading your account from the crewing point of view, too. It was like we were there.
Thanks for sharing.
Comment by Rachel | 08.17.2007 | 11:39 am
Susan,
You are an inspiration to me! It’s so amazing to see women full of love and self-sacrifice like yourself really improving the lives of those they meet. My mother flew out to help me take care of my first baby when she was battling breast cancer, and she hardly said a word of complaint. You remind me of her, and it makes me excited to crew for my husband during lotoja. Crazy, huh?
Thanks for the write-up. Can’t wait to read about it again next year!
Comment by Jose | 08.17.2007 | 12:03 pm
Way to go Susan! keep it up, you are an inspiration for us.
Comment by AMG in Texas | 08.17.2007 | 12:58 pm
Susan,
What a gal!!! (as we say here in Texas ;-) Fatty is a winner having you on his team. You make us all proud with your valiant fight and dedication to your husband and family. Where did I put that handkerchief???
Keep going forward and with the wind.
Comment by TimK | 08.17.2007 | 1:06 pm
Elden,
I think two things are going to happen next year – not to put any pressure on you.
1. I think that you are going to get a sub-nine crewed by your awe-inspiring wife, and
2. I think you are going to win a Webby for best blog in all categories.
There aren’t many places one can go on the Web and feel so inspired and positive after reading the post and subsequent comments.
I hope to get the chance to meet the original FC crew some day, you guys are amazing.
Comment by KatieA | 08.17.2007 | 1:58 pm
Lovely to read your post Susan, you’re such a wonder-woman! Fatty is so lucky to have you in his life (which I’m sure he knows) and it’s so inspiring to read your adventure as well.
Get well soon!!! Need to hear about all the Leadvilles to come!
Comment by kentucky joe | 08.17.2007 | 5:47 pm
This story is a perfect example of what makes this blog so contagious. I know I want to be part of “Team Fatty” because reading these posts is inspiring and motivational and funny and sad and are a reflection of a part of life lived well. Thanks to everyone who contributes because even the comments are thoughtful and a must read. Reading this blog regularly has become a habit. I feel better for having found this blog. That is so very cool. Thanks for sharing a little slice of your lives, it is time well spent. Best wishes on many more cycling adventures and the colorful stories that interest, entertain and inspire us readers.
Comment by Fan of Susan | 08.18.2007 | 1:49 pm
The Leadville series has lured me out of lurking for a second time, and, hopefully, my posting name says it all. Susan, I am awed and inspired by you, as well as Elden, and to quote my students, you are “the bomb diggity”. Wishing you all the best!
Comment by Al Maviva | 08.18.2007 | 2:18 pm
Susan, thanks for the story. We can’t trust Fatty to tell the truth, either about how bad he is, or how good you are.
Comment by iDon, uNot | 08.18.2007 | 4:17 pm
Susan, THANK YOU! You seem like an amazing, selfless person and a blessing to FC. My prayers go out for all the best for you, fatty and your families!
Comment by Argentius | 08.18.2007 | 8:55 pm
Susan, you’re an inspiration to us all.
I really don’t know what more to say!
Comment by sans auto | 08.18.2007 | 9:12 pm
Don’t take this the wrong way Fatty, but this was the update I was looking forward to all week. You told us your time on the first day, that was done… But how was Susan. On part II you told us that you were looking for Susan and the things that were going through your head as to her health and wellbeing. I thought that might be foreshadowing of something to come and I’ve been worried about Susan all week. Bike race–who cares. I’m glad to hear that Susan is doing all right. As for next year, you just need a little bit of Susan’s toughness to rub off on you. With half the toughness she’s got, you would have sub-8 in the bag.
Comment by bradk | 08.19.2007 | 5:17 pm
susan, i cant believe you still had a smile on your face at the last aid station. as i came through and you shouted words of encouragement to me i felt like i should have been the one to be cheering you on. thanks for making leadville 07 the best yet.
Comment by Mike Roadie | 08.19.2007 | 8:09 pm
This was a big day……..so GREAT to hear Susan’s side.
I see someone else is copying my tag of adding the Livestrong link….so loyal readers, you know where to go: http://austin07.livestrong.org/mlevin
Let’s fight on!!!!!!!!!
Pingback by Fat Cyclist » Blog Archive » Close But No Cigar, Part VI: Dug’s Tragedy | 08.19.2007 | 8:29 pm
[...] « Close But No Cigar, Part V: The Other Side of the Coin [...]
Comment by Errorista | 08.20.2007 | 10:26 am
Ah geeeez I’m totally late on this, but anywayzzzz
Susan I am so happy that my funny-faced brother landed someone cool like you. This story is yet another in all the stories I’ve seen you live with him. You guys are awesome.
Comment by Rocky | 08.20.2007 | 10:27 am
Nice work, Susan. You are too tough for words.
Comment by lmouse | 08.21.2007 | 2:28 pm
I’m not good at the sappy stuff, especially when it comes to this Monster Disease from Hell, but I have to say thank you to both you and your husband for sharing your story and your beautiful spirit with us. I continue to pray for your recovery (or remission or whatever euphemism they’re currently using. Gad, I hate this disease.) In my book, Susan, you are the winner of Leadville this year. The one who made the galant gesture. Le beau geste.