Although our bike ride from Houston to Fort Worth is over, the struggle many veterans face, is far from it. When you are talking about being paralyzed from the waist down due to an improvised explosive, or depression from witnessing horrific events, the journey is long, and most just take it a step at a time. One of the last people I met on event, had cycled behind me for much of one leg, then asked if she could draft again, for another. Compliments of my being a steady rider, who communicates changes, and is also, fairly, large (breaks more wind), she felt safe behind me. I later learned trust is her struggle, as she was sexually assaulted, while serving.
There are a lot of programs that help vets with their struggles, but something about the United Healthcare Ride 2 Recovery Challenges, really seems to be effective. One week on a bicycle, in the elements, getting cheered on by the community, and coming face to face with our triggers, is all some service folks need, to heal. And for those who have to “up their dose”, there are other rides, and maybe one of these years, I will join them on some. For now though, it is back to “normal” life, as a husband, father, and pastor… yes, there is also the wounded veteran component, but thanks to 4-6hrs a week (60-90miles) on a Cannondale, I feel I am winning at life.
God Bless America,
Jonathan L. Dade
Messiah Echad .org
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