For the first time in my life, I have been alone for over a
week as Denis is on his great adventure in the Race Across America. I think
that Denis and all involved in this endeavor will come back changed people. I
do not think you can witness the grandeur of this country, meet folks that are
the backbone of America and witness the courageous determination of cyclists
racing 3000 miles without some sort of transformation to your spirit.
I have been thinking of all the courageous people in my life
as I avidly await word every day on how Cassie Schumaker, the cyclist who is racing in
RAAM, is doing. She overcame illness in the desert within the first 48 hours
that almost knocked her out of the competition, but she bounced back. Now, she is
performing like the world class athlete that she is, pedaling up the Rockies.
Cassie will be at the half way point in less than 500 miles! The reason Cassie
is cycling? To raise awareness for veterans in need and to honor the fallen.
Andy ‘s name is right on her shoulders. Ace is with her with every revolution of her
pedals.
I think of my husband,
Denis who is part of Cassie’s support crew. He has cut himself off from his
world as he has no computer, sporadic cell phone contact, and no creature
comforts. For all that know my husband; this took a lot of courage. He needed
to trust that his friends and family back home would take care of the day to
day while he totally focused on keeping Cassie going. Denis is dedicated to
helping Cassie realize her dream and keeping Andy’s spirit moving across this
great country with her.
I think of my dear friend, John, who, literally, died while
in SWAT training from a coronary episode. Not only did John fight back from
death, he ran a half marathon last month and is newly engaged to be married.
Again, the courage and determination that John possesses is inspiring and Andy
would be his biggest cheerleader if he were here.
And, of course, I think of Andy, but I always think of Andy.
Every Marine at Marine Week Cleveland made me think of him. Every American flag
that waved made me think of him. I ran with the Marines in the Cleveland Police
Chase wearing my “Ace” Runners shirt, knowing he was with me every step of the
way (even though he really hated PT!).
It has been a time of great triumphs with periods of
desolation sprinkled in. I am energized when I think of all the dedicated and
brave people in my life and the motivation they provide. I know that Cassie’s endeavor will inspire
many, a few to something great, others to just reach outside their comfort zone.
I will continue to get my shots of spiritual strength as I watch Cassie and her crew
progress in the Race Across America with
Andy on her back, Denis by her side and me in her heart.
Ace’s Mom
“There is nothing to be unhappy about!” – Andy “Ace” Nowacki
