March 20, 2004 - 6 days before my cardiac transplant, Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
June 2008 on a training ride with my beautiful Italian Pinarello.
In the spirit of challenging myself, I am riding to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation and invite you to click on the link below and consider becoming an organ donor yourself.
“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” Albert Schweitzer
Photographs
on this site by
Barbara Gates
© 2013
all rights reserved
In September 2000 I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. On March 26, 2004 I received a donor heart and had a cardiac transfer at the age of 52; the same age cardiomyopathy claimed the life of my mother. Its been quite a journey since...
This site is devoted to documenting an ongoing adventure, the Tour de Second Chance, a bike ride from Cleveland, Ohio to Boston, Massachusetts. that helped me find my way back to being athletic with my new donor heart and express my gratitude in the transplantation community. In 2008 I made the 800 mile trip in 11 days. In 2010 I did the ride in 8 days. Both times stopping to meet fellow cardiac transplant recipients and those waiting for hearts in hospitals in Cleveland, Rochester, Albany , and Boston.
I ride to celebrate my life, to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation and to share my experiences before, during and after my transplant.
In 2010 I rode to honor the memory and work of Dr. Kenneth Baughman, transplant cardiologist and avid triathlete who literally and poetically touched my heart so many times. I carry his presences this year as well. I also carry the memory of my father who passed away last year in February.
So check the blog regularly. We have kept all the entries from 2008 and 2010 and will add on as the 2013 ride unfolds... on your left Nellie.
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To hear “Richard’s Heart”, written and performed by Rose Cousins click on the play button below the picture to the left.
picture taken at Passim May 2, 2008 of Richard and Rose before a gig
Thank you for your generous support.
RIDE UPDATE Tuesday, August 13, Richard rode 106.5 miles between Beaver Pennsylvania and Cleveland Ohio - blog in the works...