I am very lucky to have stumbled across a cause that I so inherently believe in. Not only does the Ride For Youth support our community, but it enhances my life as an individual as well. Finding a group, a project and a cause that aligns so closely with my own values has been one of my greatest blessings.
I know that when it comes to mental illness, professional treatment and support is not just a benefit, but a necessity, and I believe we need to make that necessary professional mental health support readily available to young people.
After a brief RFY hiatus (including some well deserved sleep ins), 2026 will be my seventh Hawaiian Ride For Youth. That means this event, and this network, have been a part of my life for almost 10 years. No matter what is happening outside of cycling - having that stable and consistent support network through the Ride has been a truly valuable part of my life for that past decade.
That's really what I think we should all strive for - having a stable and consistent support network, because that's what everyone deserves. Especially our youth.
