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"Why I Ride" by Larry Nona
I've been reading all of these great stories with marks of triumph and determination of why someone takes the challenge and does the Ride for AIDS Chicago 200 mile ride. I don't believe I have anything exciting to tell but, I think perhaps it will just do me good to jot this down. I've never done a marathon, a half-marathon, a 'pretend' marathon. Hell, I don't even like to run. I know it's good and all but, I just don't enjoy it...yet. What I do love to do is ride my bike. Nearly every day I ride 10k in the morning and 10k in the evening. I get to shed my chubby winter coat and see the sights of this great area I live in. I still ride the same ole Schwinn Traveler I purchased many years ago. Back then, a 12 speed was very awesome to own. My first experience with a casualty to AIDS was August, 1986. At the age of 21 I began what sadly would become a habitual occurrence of attending many funerals of loved ones who were gone much too soon. Helplessly watching a vibrant, handsome soul wither away is heartbreaking. For years I kept telling myself "Self, you need to start doing something". I just didn't know what that 'something' was. That is until I met Michael Ross Steffen. The world of FaceBook somehow got me connected to him [friends of friends of friends, etc.]. Come to find out he's from the area I now call home. Small world indeed. Mikey posted an invitation to join his team B.J.Pro.Mos. My 'something' light bulb went off and I joined. My first ride was last year. A bit anxious, I was not sure I'd be able to trek for 100 miles in one day and then turn around and do it again the next day. All of the crew members and hospitality stop volunteers kept the momentum going. Nothing keeps you energized more than a convertible full of drag queens encouraging you each and every mile! Holding up paddle signs with "You can do it" "Almost There" and even a few times "You are cute". These people are the backbone to the riders. And, I cannot tell you the emotional feeling I got while playing Gavin DeGraw's version of "We Are The Champions" on my bike radio and seeing my fellow teammates and good friends waiting there at the finish line holding a sign "Welcome Home, Larry! Great Job". I actually DID the 200 miles! But, I digress. This ride isn't about just me. This ride is about spreading awareness and getting donations to assist the thousands of people living with HIV/AIDS. And if I can do my small part and gain great friendships along the way, it is worth every single mile my old Schwinn will take me. I cannot thank my many friends and co-workers who have donated to my page and encouraged me on through the ride. Thankfully, cell phone reception was quite good everywhere. I proudly wore all of their names on my bandana and am prepared to the same this year. And to you, Mikey...thanks for letting me be a part of your team. tell us why YOU ride or crew and we'll feature it here. email your story to r.cordova@tpan.com | 
