Comeback Kids on Wheels – 50 at 50 for 50 for JS
“When I ride a bike, I feel like a kid again,” says Jill Gilley. “It’s my freest, happiest place.”
“Country roads, West Virginia… rolling on two wheels is a favorite memory of childhood,” says Amy Jackson.
Given their enthusiasm, would it surprise you how unlikely it is for Jill and Amy to invite riders and supporters to a 50-mile ride for Joshua Station on August 20? There’s a story behind that, but first the event details…
50 at 50 for 50 for JS
50 miles around the city
50 years young – Jill and Amy pacing the route
50k in donations for Joshua Station – together, can we do it?
20th Anniversary of Joshua Station – what better occasion?
20th of August, 2022
7:20am sharp! Hit the road, departing from Joshua Station
11:20(ish) – finish line watch party and picnic at Joshua Station
Riders: RSVP and details – contact Jill Gilley
Sponsors: Visit our Go Fund Me page
Round up your friends and enlist some sponsors/givers! Let’s have fun for the great cause we all know is Joshua Station. We’re off the start line with $12,580 so far.
Back to our story. Why so unlikely? After all, Jill (MHM’s philanthropy officer) and Amy (MHM’s deputy director) love staying fit and ready.
Ah yes, the classic Thanksgiving football game.
Jill was feeling a kid again, running full out, all fun and games until… her hamstring snapped. Meniscus went with it, on the same knee she’d previously had surgically repaired. An epic faceplant ensued.
Her football career may be over, but the loss of cycling is what was crushing for Jill. “Years ago, after the birth of 3 kids, I got serious about road riding. I got addicted. The wind in my face, the camaraderie with other riders, the bonding experiences, the rides for causes, the feeling of being in shape—can’t get enough. Denver has great bike lanes and trails, and great hill climbs are nearby.”
“During the winter, I was really sad!” Jill remembers. Then by spring… a wee seed of a thought.
What about asking Amy if she’d be game for a small bike ride fundraiser for Joshua Station? Just to get them both back up on bikes?
“Nope,” was Amy’s reply. Several years ago Amy had a biking accident that almost ended her biking days. “Not ready, not happening.” A few months later, however, Jill learned that Amy was secretly, gingerly, testing her body and spirit on two wheels.
So it’s on. Let’s join these two comeback kids in supporting families on the comeback from homelessness!
