T minus 42 Days!!!

We are SO excited to announce that the tally on the American Lung Association website has passed the $5,000 mark which means we now have over 100 miles of our 4,000 mile trip sponsored. People have asked, so we'd like to clarify that any money donated to that site goes directly to the American Lung Association via Steps For Stanley. We are funding the trip on our own, an expensive undertaking to say the least... but we are interested in raising funds for the ALA, not taking them away. That said, if you would like to contribute directly to our trip, we will be needing gas for the van and food. We're in the process of seeking sponsorship from companies such as Wal Mart, Target, Costco, Giant, and Sam's Club, as well as various gas companies. Thank you very much to each of you who have already given for all of the support, encouragement, and generosity. Keep spreading the word, make every step count!

Autumn Bills is Driving (me crazy)

The number one question I have received in response to the news that I will be driving the van for a cross country bike trip is, “You mean, you are just going to drive behind them going 10 miles per hour across the whole country?” I usually laugh and try to explain my role as best I can. It is hard to know exactly what my days will look like or how I may be called upon to serve as part of this team. It is pretty clear for the bikers: wake up, bike, eat, bike, eat again, sleep, repeat… My role is a little more ambiguous.
Jenny and Jonathan began recruiting me to drive the van some time last fall. It took a few months for it to sink in, but as soon as I realized I could be cruising around the country, reading, hiking and getting a pretty sweet tan, all while supporting efforts to end lung disease, the choice became obvious.
I hope to spend these next few months contributing meaningfully to SFS and growing as an individual. The ALA touches my life as I live with asthma daily and as lung disease affects my family. My goal is that as we support the ALA’s efforts to raise awareness and funding for lung disease research, I too will be growing in physical, emotional and spiritual health through my time spent on the tour. I also hope to be a blessing to the bikers... ehhh cyclists, as they make this courageous plan a reality.
So, I have officially signed on to be the van driver. I couldn’t be more pleased to accompany such amazing friends, making an incredible journey and supporting a critical cause, even if does mean 10 mile per hour, all day, every day.