At the inaugural Flint Hills Gravel Ride out of Americus, Ks, that is where!

NOTES AND TIPS:

1. DO NOT SCHEDULE A J&J COVID VACCINE SHOT the Wednesday afternoon of a Saturday morning gravel event. After spending all day Thursday in bed with headache, achy joints, fatigue, fever, chills and zero appetite, a Saturday morning ride like this is too soon. Friday I still had headache, little appetite, slight nausea but functionable. By Saturday, I had a slight headache that FINALY responded to Tylenol and was eating carefully as to not upset stomach. SO yeah, I had a moment about 7-8 miles in I got lightheaded, blurry vision, lungs hurt, chest tight, nervous I was gonna pass out or have a heart attack. Maybe it was Jon's magic hugs, but after several minutes, I finally got to a point I was able to ride...at least get to checkpoint and then decide to press on.

2. DON'T TAKE COMMENTS FROM THE COURSE CREW AS CHALLANGES. I rolled up to a turn with people off their bikes looking down a stretch. While I saw a line I could ride, it was pretty muddy. But should I? Maybe just walk it all...till someone says, "With those tires you may make it if you navigate correctly". Challenge accepted. I went maybe 150 yards when I thought I was a few feet from what was solid and no. Back wheel locked in mud. Had to scrape just to get it to turn for walking as it was too heavy to carry now.

3. THE HAPPY GEAR IS KEY TO ANY FINISH. Something Jon told me about way back. Just find the happy gear in the situation you are in and go with it. Even if it is at a crawl, I will find a happy gear to get thru wind, a long climb, or long straight. Happy gear may be fast in one section and slow later.

4. THE FLINT HILLS NATURE TRAIL IS GREAT FOR BIKE RIDES. The stretch we rode into the checkpoint was a joy after what we had just been thru with the wind. Reminds me how I need to take advantage of the FHNT more often.

5. ANY ROUTE CREATED BY ANYONE NAMED BOBBY, WILL 90% OF THE TIME HAVE A HIKE A BIKE SECTION OF SOME SORT. While we were told there would not be more than a mile (at a time) of muddy roads, there are still muddy roads/sections. Being I did the 34miler, we really only saw 1 mile of actual hike a bike and then a 10 to 20yd spots of mud not too terrible to ride thru. I hear the 80milers had a bit more.

5. THE WIND IS ALWAYS BLOWING THE WRONG WAY. Wind will suck the life out of you when riding toward it; try to steer you off your line when blowing crossways; and create your personal sauna when at your back. Sure you can ride faster with it at tor back, but if the sun is out, you will cook while doing it. . . So best just not have 15 to 20 mph winds. 2 to 4 mph would do.

6. THE FINISH IS NEVER DISAPPOINTING. It does not matter what kind of finish line is set up. . .just finishing an event is a personal achievement and feels good. I have only quit once and if I had only finished, I'd had placed. I just need better skills to get my shit together on my own so as to not worry Jon or slow down someone else's progress. (OR maybe not get a damn vaccine known to make you ill 48 hours before a ride.)
​
Anyway, it was really good to be back among my gravel peeps for my first in person gravel event of the year! Nice to have a new awesome event so close to home too.
#pinkgravel
#windsucksandblows
#flinthillsgravelride
#bikegoodr

So, just before Easter, I received a message from a Pink Gravel follower.   She informed me that she is a "late-to-the-party" cyclist, but loves road and gravel.  It was because of her love for her gravel community, she found Pink Gravel.  I am going to refer to her endearingly as Mrs. LTTP (Late-to-the-party).  For the record I am 46, so I think I fit into that category too. 

In Mrs. LTTP's message, she informed me that she has just begun her journey with breast cancer and is hoping she will be able to approach it with the same humor and grace that I displayed.  Mrs. LTTP was still in the discovery phase and just starting to have the hard conversations with family members about her diagnosis.  Mrs. LTTP thanked me for being here.  Her words warmed my heart.

It is odd how I now feel an instant connection to other breast cancer warriors.  You hear the jokes; but seriously, It is a club.  The club dues are freak'n high; but if have been diagnosed and are willing to look for us "cancer club members", you will open the door to a whole new world of instant friends.  It is a bit amazing considering the cost.  

And that is where Pink Gravel comes in.  I believe a HUGE part of my coping with cancer was through sharing.  Of course I could talk to anyone and/or post it all on FB but I also wanted to respect the fact not everyone is interested or maybe they have their own stuff going on.  I suppose traditional support groups would have fill this space. 

But guess what?  COVID is what. 

The one group I could find in my area that meets once a month, was not meeting.  But, you know who was?  Gravel cyclists.  Now, granted, I wasn't riding because of being physically drained from cancer treatments, but I was able to fill a water bottle, hand out some snacks and hold a bike while a rider pees in the trees.   So I pushed out Pink Gravel to the public and began a new cancer support group of one.  Since then I have been looking for others to join me and join in my support of others.

I want to thank all of you out there who take the time to read the blogs, who support Pink Gravel by liking the social media pages, who share this website, who wear or display Pink Gravel swag, who attend our events and those who welcome or advertise Pink Gravel at your events.  It is SO APPRECIATED!   It was because of you that Pink Gravel was on a Girls Gone Gravel Podcast!  How cool is that?!?!

So please know your actions help others, help people like me - like Mrs. LTTP - find some additional support within the gravel community that they may not have in their local area.

And you know. . . It's a gravel club within the cancer club. 
I would even say it is a cooler club -  because you don't have to get cancer to be in it. :)  #pinkgravel  #cancersucks  

Today was "port cath removal day".  On Feb. 20, 2020, almost 1 year to the day that it had been installed.

It is hard to believe it has been a year and oh, what a fun a year it was (that is sarcasm).   

I have heard from other cancer survivors it can be an emotional event and that held true for me.  A significant piece of my cancer journey was on its way out.   The port cath installation signified the beginning of treatments; today's procedure signifies the end.  I do have a maintenance  pill to take daily for several years but the hardest part of that is to not drop it in the sink or floor.

I stated often to family prior to today how the surgeon had to put me under to install the port cath; but, to remove it, I am awake and just laying there in chair.  The thought of being awake totally wigs me out.  I kept envisioning him pulling a slippery worm out of the dirt only the worm was the port & dirt was my skin. 

Needless to say, it wasn't like that at all - not even a slippery slithery noise was heard as it was pulled out.  I was fully numb and really did not feel much other than a little tug.  The procedure took a full 30 minutes.  I learned today the worry I carried the past year about it moving around was all for naught; as now I find out it was stitched into position.   I was vocal about being scared and I kept waiting for that moment "it hurt".  It never happened but then I had my mom holding my hand.  Yes, yes.  I am 46 years old and still need my Mom.   She is a survivor and a pretty tough woman so I knew she could get me through this.  And . . . my Mom gets a kick out of medical procedures.  So to watch one up close and personal was my gift to her.   Not sure the surgeon appreciated how intently she watched but it did assured for a nice stitch up job.  LMAO

Going in, I had intended to take my port cath home with me.  I mean, I did pay for it.  I was going to put it in a jar and maybe break it out at Halloween parties. 

But I didn't.   Just shed a few more tears, I took a deep breath, collected my thoughts and left.

Bye little guy.  Thanks for job you played in saving my life.

Because no two cancer experiences are the same, I am asking fellow cancer warriors and survivors following Pink Gravel to please speak up and respond to the following questions.  If you know someone that may be interested in sharing as well, please share this post with them.  I hope to collect several  and post to this Pink Gravel Blog page and Facebook page in the next few weeks.  First names will only be used if used at all.

Pink Gravel is giving you an opportunity to share a little bit about your cancer story on our platform.  These stories will also provide a resource for those looking for ideas on how to help themselves or help support someone they know going through treatments.

1. What type of cancer?
2. Summary of your treatment?
3. what were notable side effects or changes?
4. Name three to five must have items that you kept in your arsenal for comfort.
5. Favorite item or gift purchased or received as gift?
6. Anything you want to add? Tips, tricks, or favorite motivational sayings?

 
Send a direct message to the Pink Gravel Facebook page, comment to this blog or if you prefer, send an email to pinkgravelrider@gmail.com  with your answers.
 
If you need a little help, here are my answers:

1. Breast Cancer
2. Lumpectomy plus nodes, Chemotherapy, Radiation & pill.
3. Mouth sores, hair loss, hip and back pain, fatigue, rashes, thinning fingernails and hot flashes, lots of hot flashes.
4. Medicated mouthwash & lozenges, hydrocortisone cream, aloe vera and plastic water bottle.
5. This is tough as I received a few cool things, but the one that sticks out is a black & purple swirl head buff that came in a box of other goodies.  It had a cool soft feel, and I wore it on my bald head at night.
6. I will skip this question but please add to your story 

  So if you saw the nice write up that my husband sent to The Mid South folks about how disappointed I was to miss the 2020 race due to chemo treatments a few days back; you will understand why I felt my bubble bust yet again.  (BTW, The Mid South was formerly the Land Run 100 and it is a gravel race that has been held annually for several years out of Stillwater, OK.  It is one of the premier gravel events of the season.  I attended my first 2 years ago and have been hankering to go back ever since).

Below is my comment to Bobby Wintle's follow up video explaining the announcement further about how The Mid South was for 2021 becoming "The Incredibly Socially Distanced Mid South"  For the safety of riders and the community, they decided to change up the event and ask those registered to ride their miles from home or a route that one of 8 area bike shops create.  I totally understand why and probably the best move, but doesn't mean I have to be happy about it.  

Anyway, here is my comment to their video post:
I will not lie, the email I received this morning dropped on me like bomb. (just ask my husband; I think I scared him ha!) If you had seen me, you would have thought I found out I have cancer. . . again. Yes, I was that distraught over this silly little event. It has taken some tears and time to fully digest and come to grips with this development.  For personal reasons, like others as I am sure I am not the only one, attending THIS YEARS The Mid South event marked a mile stone for me. This was THE gravel event, I was MOST excited for since being told not to attend last years.  I was so relieved when the deferrals were given for 2021. This morning, I was sad to see it semi-disappear.  It took about 5.5 hours from first reading the news and an order of Dairy Queen cheese curds but I think I am ok now. I will survive - we all will survive - again as Covid KO's beloved event. 

At this moment, I don't know where I will ride out of but I WILL RIDE my 50 miles somewhere that weekend. I encourage others to do the same and not turn to a complete sour grape as I almost did. And just so you are aware The Mid South - whether I am fortunate enough to catch Randy Randomizer eye(s) or not next year, I am getting a dang hug in 2022.    

​PS. . . I appreciate the video follow up. worth the effort as it helped ease the pain. #positivevibing #pinkgravel #pinklemonade

The Mid South replies:
Hey Amy, I know how much you wanted this.  Needed it.  That's what made this such a hard decisions.  I want to commend you for your outlook.  It shows how strong you really are.  Out of all the people who could be cross about this decision, I know you'd be justified.  Good on you for processing it and sharing it out.  Please, please stay committed to your ride.  Share it with us, but do it for you!  I know this isn't our first choice, but I can say it's going to make cheering you into the finish line in 2022 that much more meaningful!  Pack the cheese curds!

I share this because sometimes things don't go exactly how we plan or expect them too.  No one plans to get cancer, but it happens and you have to just find a way to get

The following was posted by The Mid South team to their Instagram and Facebook accounts on January 5, 2021. 
Very sweet of my husband write and very cool of The Mid South to publish.  Gives me the feels every time I read it.

The Mid South writes:
This story was shared by Jon from Manhattan KS.
2020 has been a challenge is an amazing understatement!  What a year it has been.  Ours actually started Halloween 2019 when my wife, Amy  was handed a real challenge.  That is when she received her cancer diagnosis.  After a little crying and hugging, I swear to God, the first words out of her mouth were "I'm not going to get my Bobby hug". 

COVID-19 hit just as she was beginning chemotherapy and we were advised to stay home. This was a tough decision as we had so many friends competing and wanted to be there to support them. 

As you can imagine the chemo and radiation were brutal, but she never lost her spirit or sense of humor, at least in public, even letting our girls paint her head like Easter eggs.  Her energy was zapped and simple walks were as tough as a 50 mile ride in a Kansas wind storm.

The pictures attached are from the Virtual Solstice Quarantine Ride 100k in Beatrice Ne., her first ride just a few months after chemo and days after radiation.  It was hot and extremely windy.  We took it in 10 mile chunks and just kept pushing. SHE NEVER WALKED A SINGLE HILL!

While recovering, she realized there just wasn't a support group for active people recovering from cancer and wanting to get back into competition.  Thus Pink Gravel was born.  She created a foundation to support, sponsor and encourage those recovering and trying to get back up and running, riding, whatever.  She finished 2020 off by providing SAG support at several events and even hosting her own, Just A Chill Ride with chili, cinnamon rolls and Lazy Horse Brewery beer for all who attended.

We deferred last year's Mid South entry, so we will be there with all of our Black Squirrel Cycling League friends representing the Pony Express Gravel Dash and Pink Gravel and ready to roll.  And this year will be even more special when she rolls over that line. 

Even if Bobby has to put on a hazmat suit, that girl deserves a hug!!!"

This is my post I made on American Cancer Society 50 Squats A Day December challenge FB page.  It came about seeing people share their accomplishments of doing 10, 20, 50 or more squats in a day.  This is apart of Pink Gravel's story and the role I hope it can play for others looking to be active in any capacity during or after the battle.
​
The post:
I am impressed by those who go above and beyond the 50 squats each day. I think it is awesome!  If I was doing this a year ago, I'd be right with you. But someone decided I needed to fight some boob cancer this past year, so I am still trying to just be more active a bit more everyday till I can get a true routine back.

As I tell people about my cancer experience, I remind them of how in college there was something known as The Freshman 15; well, I found there is the Cancer 15.  My weight gain came not during the treatments but after while the effects of the treatments were working themselves out of my system.  Not to mention a pill I now take for the next 5 yrs which  is known to enhance weight gain not make me run fast. (I know, right?)

So many days I wake up, making a conscious effort to choose that today will be that day that I REALLY will get back to being active. I sometimes even grit my teeth and look in the mirror at myself and say it out loud. "For real, Amy, today we are going to do it"

"But, but, but.... it is hard," says my body. "I already fought cancer now you want to do this?"  My body is obviously not on the same page as my mind.  Eventually, by evening, the mind is tired of fighting my body and says, "Ok, sit on the couch this evening, but tomorrow we try this again."

"Sure," my body says with fingers crossed.
​ 
That is where I have been for awhile now.  I completed all chemo and radiation early May 2020 and slowly adding pounds.  It made me sad inside.  I have stopped beating myself up about it daily and have accepted it as a part of the cancer experience.

I am ready for a new chapter now.  My come back.  My cancer come back.  And I really think this ACS challenge is where it starts.  I can feel it in my thighs....literally.😁

So if you power out 50 squats in one go or sprinkle them throughout the day like me, you are all awesome! 

50 squats is 50 squats.