The Sea-To-Sea journey is not just a personal adventure. It's not just about me going beyond my physical and mental comfort zones. As I have told people about my goal, they are often excited and we get into great discussions about cycling technique, equipment and adventure stories. But in this, I am missing the opportunity to discuss the REAL story behind the ride-the purpose.
Sea-To-Sea is not about raising awareness of cycling-although in this hyper-do-it-green society that is a sexy sell. No, Sea To Sea is about being aware that the bike I ride is worth a few months salary to some people-a year for others. That my helmet would buy tuition, books and a uniform for some child to go to school for a year. That I don't have to worry about whether the water in my bottle is safe to drink. That I am able to live with cancer because I live in a country that has healthcare that can sustain me. That by completing this ride-God willing-some one else can have a little better standard of living-a chance at one. I can't change the whole world...but I can make a difference in somebody's world.
And so we focus on fund-raising. The minimum is $10,000. At first this seems like a lot of money and it kinda is but we have a year and I have thought out a plan.
1- If 100 people donate $100....We've got the minimum. Very doable but let's not stop there.
2- The Un-Wedding Party for my 40th Birthday party will be a fundraiser. I don't need more stuff but if you want to give money or cycling supplies(maybe I can "register" at the local cycling shops!) that would be most appreciated.
3-Speaking of Birthday parties- the hot new trend is fund-raising parties. If you, your kids or friends are looking for a cause...Here I am. Anyone or group that gets on board I will gladly come before and after the ride and talk to the gang..bike safety, setting goals, preparation, third world issues...all good. IF you want...or you can pay to have me stay away!
4-Jon Bon Jovi- As you may know, I have had a serious crush on this guy for over 20yrs. Sadly my most long-term relationship. He has never played London and Sea To Sea is suppose to end in his home town, Jersey City NJ. I think he should do a benefit concert here in London. What we need is an address/contact information for him/his people. We will then start a letter/email campaign. I figure the worst he can say is No. Any research you can do, information you can get, strings you can pull- do it. I think this is doable. Let's see what needs to be done.
Any other options or idea...post away. I'd love to hear it.
And as I talk to people about my ride, let me NEVER lose the opportunity to share the real purpose of the ride-about the world and what I believe.
Sea-To-Sea is not about raising awareness of cycling-although in this hyper-do-it-green society that is a sexy sell. No, Sea To Sea is about being aware that the bike I ride is worth a few months salary to some people-a year for others. That my helmet would buy tuition, books and a uniform for some child to go to school for a year. That I don't have to worry about whether the water in my bottle is safe to drink. That I am able to live with cancer because I live in a country that has healthcare that can sustain me. That by completing this ride-God willing-some one else can have a little better standard of living-a chance at one. I can't change the whole world...but I can make a difference in somebody's world.
And so we focus on fund-raising. The minimum is $10,000. At first this seems like a lot of money and it kinda is but we have a year and I have thought out a plan.
1- If 100 people donate $100....We've got the minimum. Very doable but let's not stop there.
2- The Un-Wedding Party for my 40th Birthday party will be a fundraiser. I don't need more stuff but if you want to give money or cycling supplies(maybe I can "register" at the local cycling shops!) that would be most appreciated.
3-Speaking of Birthday parties- the hot new trend is fund-raising parties. If you, your kids or friends are looking for a cause...Here I am. Anyone or group that gets on board I will gladly come before and after the ride and talk to the gang..bike safety, setting goals, preparation, third world issues...all good. IF you want...or you can pay to have me stay away!
4-Jon Bon Jovi- As you may know, I have had a serious crush on this guy for over 20yrs. Sadly my most long-term relationship. He has never played London and Sea To Sea is suppose to end in his home town, Jersey City NJ. I think he should do a benefit concert here in London. What we need is an address/contact information for him/his people. We will then start a letter/email campaign. I figure the worst he can say is No. Any research you can do, information you can get, strings you can pull- do it. I think this is doable. Let's see what needs to be done.
Any other options or idea...post away. I'd love to hear it.
And as I talk to people about my ride, let me NEVER lose the opportunity to share the real purpose of the ride-about the world and what I believe.
Let's think BIG!
2 comments:
Thought - what if we get Robin to do the whole picture thing (you, the bike, the heels, the basket) and get them printed on pre-addressed cards - to Jon Bon Jovi - hand them out and have people pay for the stamp to send them - they can sign and date them - we can send a preliminary package warning him that they're coming and explain the whole trip and then everytime one of your pictures crosses his desk he thinks about it again - little reminders every few days - I think this can work!!!
~H
Gayle, you just missed out on the Jon Bon Jovi thing... see, Al Gore is friends with Jon, and Al was just here in town yesterday. You could have sweet talked Hank V. into an introduction (come on, you know he was there) and Bob's yer uncle!
...art
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