This year is a BIG one, this marks 8 years of successful completion of the challenges, but also the opportunity to bring the Challenge back to Chicago, where it all started!!!!
Since the creation of the ride challenge in 2016, we have grown the reach and education of kidney health, and the services that the National Kidney Foundation provides. This year we aim to grow even bigger, celebrating a significant milestone not only in health but also in success with this ride challenge. My goal this year is to raise $3000 that will go toward funding the amazing education, services, counseling, and overall support for those affected with Kidney Diseases.
On a personal note, I’ve been dealing with kidney issues for more than half of my life. My kidney issues are directly related to my being a natural producer of kidney stones and microscopic holes that allow for cyst growth, compounded by blood infections that stem from simple infections that happen as a result of cysts deteriorating . For treatments I have experienced a range that goes from surgeries and stints to extended hospital stays, with now a found success in managing it effectively with regular CT scans and the occasional IV antibiotic treatment. (Click the link above for my full Kidney journey)
I have also found my way through to a better life balance by modifying my diet and consistent exercise with SoulCycle that has brought me to a new sense of freedom in my health these last few years.
Upon my first year of being hospital free, I started an independent charity challenge ride with SoulCycle. The goal being to ride my birthday age by the date of my birthday. The last year as a rider, I was turning 40, and so the goal was to hit 40 rides in 23 days.. and we did it!
As an instructor, last year the challenge changed a little in riding my age of rides, to sharing more space with the people around me, to sharing more growth with the community that has supported and accepted me, and to celebrating every step forward in health and strength.. This is my way of honoring and bringing full circle the elements that have worked to keep me healthy and grow the education and understanding of the many faces of Kidney Illness.
THE CHALLENGE 2024 : December 1-23, 2024
No matter the outcome, any dollar raised, any post like, any ride ridden, any knowledge gained from the exposure of this ride or the information shared by the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, helps the entire community and so many loved ones.
From educational programs, to van testing, to helping families with children going through uncertainty, and to the patients needing transplants and their families, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois helps to no end. I am proud to be a part of growing the reach, and helping in any way, I am hopeful that you will join me in this journey.
Please click through the links to learn more about my story, but also to learn more about the programs and how your donation can help the National Kidney Foundation.
Also, please check out the event updates to see the schedule of rides for the week, as I look forward to riding with you as we celebrate another year of health, and another year of strength!!
Thank you so much for reading through this, and thank you in advance for any donation you may offer.
Your support helps us provide resources and programs like our KidneyMobile screenings and Living with Kidney Disease & Transplantation to the estimated 1.1 million Illinois residents living with or at risk for developing chronic kidney disease. Additionally, you are helping to fund four different research grants available to medical students, young investigators, fellows, and innovators.
YOU are making a difference and helping us change the face of kidney health in Illinois!