GIST 2009 by Kelly Swingler

I hope you are all home safely and now well rested.

This wonderful experience has been much on my mind this past week. It is hard to describe all the emotions and stories but I have explained it to many people like this :

It was incredible to see and feel how the group of people that got together for this ride in Montreal, and then later, were an instant family team, with everyone understanding perfectly what we were trying to do. A long and tough ride each day through some of the world's most beautiful countryside raising support for research into this horrible disease. The support among the team of riders, planners, support crew, and friends along the way was just perfect. We could not have wished for better. We were definitely blessed from ABOVE keeping us safe and with generally decent weather. I loved riding along and chatting to everyone as I learned more about riding these distances. I loved the feeling of getting fitter and doing my bit to help the ride along and I loved the success of the ride culminating in New York on Saturday. I was very humbled to meet the people who we were doing this for and hear their stories. It was great to hear from the researchers, but it was quite incredible to hear so many people say that without this kind of support for this kind organization funding this kind of research, that they would most likely not be alive today. I am so very happy to have been tricked into participating and thank you all so very much for the memories.

I hope that I will be able to do similar good things in the years to come and I hope that some of these will be with you wonderful people.

Some other thoughts : I think Tania is amazing. I thank the Torrey family for sending Bruce to ride with us and hosting the wonderful dinner at Gibby's. Not exactly carbo-loading but fine by me. It was great to meet Beth Stutman and hear about her ride across Canada. It was so nice to have Jacques lead us out of Montreal and along the best cycling paths I have ever ridden on (that tells you about Connecticut). I think the Canadians are a strange lot to build roads that go straight - up and over some very large hills - rather than a nice gentle one around the hills. (I will not forget Le Rue de Sommets). I think Karen has a very nice passport, and rides quite well too. Uwe's discipline was impressive. His photographs magnificent. Dylan is a really special young man. I loved driving along chatting with you, and I loved watching you ride and ride. I enjoyed riding with Swing and rooming with him. I think. Thank you Kelly, Anne and Alan. I will visit the Maine coast again. On my bike too. Irena, Steve, Johnny, Wouter, Cindy and Marcia - what fantastic support. Rox and her socks, Rae without his, Ken like a rocket, Tom like a train, Bob and Bob setting the magical course and keeping us on it, Peter riding it from the front, and Riette's constant smile - I loved riding with you all. John and Debbie - what a nice home in the mountains and fabulous food. Fresh legs too. Si - Thank you for all the training and riding we have done together. Wayne - thanks for EVERYTHING. I do not have to rabbit on here about how impressed I am. I am very proud to have you as a buddy. Suzy, John - how very nice to have been able to ride with you here. I look forward to the Argus 2010. Kathy - what would we have done without your artistic flair and marketing genius?

if it comes to the essence of life, to me, it is all about people.

In our particular case, the riders and members of the support group represented a very strong team.

Every individual kept his/her own strong individuality and by doing so, everybody could support best the team effort.

All the rest, Philip found the right words already.

To summarize it all - a life time experience!

A great thanks to Wayne, how made me join this ride!

A great thanks to my wife, who supported me strongly during the entire time of the project & ride!

All the best

Uwe

I fully agree with you guys: the ride was a fantastic experience for me where I had the opportunity to meet lovely and special people and cycle through wonderful places. And most importantly: this was for a noble cause! As Phil wrote below, it was quite incredible and touching to hear many people thanking us for our support, saying that without this kind of action, supporting the research, they would most likely not be alive today!!!

Many many thanks to all of you and especially to Wayne who invited me to be part of this sensational "2009 Peter Thomas GIST Ride" family!!!

Kind regards,

Lineu Bueno Jr.

I can't begin to thank you all for all that you have done. You have put your lives on hold, you committed yourselves with such great determination to do the most unselfish gift of giving, "THE GIFT OF LIFE " and made the difference in so many lives.

I'm humbled to be surrounded by all of you more so because i am that Gist cancer patient.

And as Peter before his passing saw his vision supported by all of you and his family and friends and left such a great legacy, I feel the same way about having such privilege to get to know you and meet everyone who are part of my life and have a special place in my heart.

I hope to continue to stay stable and to be around till 2012 and maybe i will even attempt to learn how to ride the bike because i would love to make the trip to South Africa for your next challenge Dillon maybe you can teach me. I think i can speak for everyone and say how special young man you are, and know that dad was there with you with each mile of the way

YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US.

Riette your strength ,courage and your beautiful smile gave you the ability to go forward with your family and keeping Peter's memory alive. We know how hard and difficult of a place it is to be, but seeing you with Dillon and Lauren must make you proud YOU ARE A VERY SPECIAL PERSON AND A GREAT FRIEND.

Wayne thanking you is not enough.You have gone beyond .The word is not strong enough of a word to express how i feel.On a personal note as a friend but as a cancer patient on behalf of all the gist community we all appreciate your constant and continues determination ,commitment to keep Peter's vision alive. YOU HAVE OUR GRATITUDE AND IS A PREVELEGE TO CALL YOU MY FRIEND

I can't thank David and Bruce and the family enough for the gracious and generosity in hosting the Dinner in Montreal. John A HAPPY 82nd Birthday again you are something else, when i grow up i want to be just like you.

Thanks Jacques for leading everyone out of Montreal that was great help. I feel so honored to have got to meet all of you in Montreal and in NY.On behalf of GCRF , Gist Community and their family myself and Robert i like to tell you all how special you all are .

Reaching out to make the difference in so many lives is the greatest gift.

Thank you all for keeping my friend Peter vision alive and continue his legacy Please except my gratitude and all my love from my heart.

Thanks:Wayne, Riette, Dillon, Phillip, Peter, Roxanne, Bob and BOB, Uwe, Tom, Simon, Susie, Lineu, Ray, Ken, John and John,Cindy, Marcia,Wouter, Irene, Johnny, Steve, Kelly, Anne, Alan, Karen.

YOU ARE ALL AWESOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A special thanks to Brian McBride that worked side by side with Wayne and a very special thanks to Kathy We couldn't have done it without your tremendous help and hard work.

With all my love and many hugs Tania.

Tania

I would like to thank everyone for making my family feel so very welcome. I can not begin to explain how much this has meant to us, but I'll try. My wife's (Rhea) GIST tumor has reoccurred after a four year remission.

This ride and the subsequent walk on Sunday afforded us a method in which to explain to our 8 year old son Daniel that his mom is sick. Up until now we haven't had a clue of how and when to even approach this topic.

It goes without saying that we appreciate the fundraising efforts of all involved, but equally important is the awareness that this ride has brought to so many people. Myself included.

I felt confused by my own emotions during the ride. Both enjoying the day and the ride and apprehensive of what the future holds in store for us and and what the ride stood for. I have since decided that it represents hope for the future.

Lastly I'd like to apologize for bringing rain to the final leg of your journey even though it didn't seem to impede anyone's spirit.

I thank you, Rhea thanks you, and Daniel thanks you.

Our best wishes for you all, and for all of your families.

Thomas Anderson

P.S. I can't end without complementing how wonderful the ride support was. Thank You Again!

I wanted to give Riette's request a lot of thought. I think I experienced the GIST Ride from a very unique vantage point. I was at the finish line 3 years ago when Bob, Peter, Wayne,John, Debbie and Roxie came across the finish line. (Roxie was driving the van 3 years ago... and look at what she did now. Awesome). That year there was so much emotion when Wayne came back to tell the riders he had just talked to Peter, and Peter knew that his dream had come true.

As I drove the lead car last week, I thought about that and wondered if Peter could even imagine watching

Dillen and Riette ride mile after mile... when it hurt...when they were exhausted...when it was getting dark. And I wondered if Peter ever imagined his brother Wayne cycling every inch of the distance....his brother who not only led the effort to keep the dream alive.... but lost hunderds of pounds and in doing so has improved his health and quality of life.

To have the opportunity to be there for both rides has filled my heart with so much love, joy and respect for everyone who was a part of each of the journeys.

I met Riette, Dillen and Lauren at the walk three years ago and visited them the following year in their home.

When I left London I was sure Dillen was going to be a rock star... he had these amazing drums in his bedroom and put on quite a show. I had no idea I was watching a future Tour De France legend in the making. And how could anyone imagine what Lauren was about to accomplish with her trek across the dessert to raise $100,000 pounds for hospice in memory of her Dad.

So it was sort of coming full circle for me as each of you road your bikes (and support vehicles) onto Cousins Island, into our home,and into my life. And then Riette decided to spend Wednesday with me at Couleur Collection. Our store had been very involved both bikes rides in supporting and raising money for GIST. Our staff was thrilled to meet Riette, to see the newspaper article the next day and feel a part of something truly remarkable.

I also had the opportunity to work with and listen to my husband Bob as he, Bob Amidon and all the others planned the ride in the US. Even the trip Bob and I made to Nova Scotia to look at the potential roads which we eventually eliminated that as an option (for safety reasons...)was spectacularly beautiful and a special time for us.

And then there was each of you. I feel like I have friends from all over the world and could call anyone of you and we would pick up where right where we left off.

So to each of you who drove a support vehicle, cycled the route, flew from another continent, raised money, organized, shopped for food, held a walk-talkie or cellphone.. bought gas or sat with me with a glass of wine or beer... you are in my thoughts and prayers each day.

You all know the way to Cousins Island. Stop by anytime... and this time I will even cook for you.

Fondly,

Marcia Feller Murray

Being a newcomer to the group, I wasn't sure what to expect when I joined the ride on the last day. Naturally I had read the background information, but this became more than just a fundraiser for another worthy cause after seeing the group ride into Sharon on the last day and meeting you and Dillan. The chemistry and passion of the team was instantly obvious, and it was then I fully appreciated how special this event was and how truly privileged I was to be a small part of it. Listening to Wayne speak during the closing ceremony was an emotional moment and it left me wishing I could have been with the group longer, and done more for the cause.

I regret I did not have the chance to know Peter, but I believe the quality of our friends and family says a great deal about who we are as people, and how we live our lives. I'm convinced Peter must have been an extraordinary person to have touched and inspired so many people from around the world, and his life is well honored through the incredible effort made on his behalf.

Best regards, Ken

The GIST 2009 Montreal to New York Memorial Cycle Challenge – In Summary

Hi there Loved Ones and Friends

As you can see I have given this letter a title – as the endeavour from which we have just returned deserves every iota of the importance that a title suggests.

On the 20th September 2009 Roxy, Rae, Karen Anderson and yours truly embarked on an amazing journey. Little realising the impact it would have on us and others in a variety of ways. Our patience, endurance, love and stress levels were going to be tested and stretched to the limit and that new thresholds were going to be set on every fibre of the physical and mental being. Speaking for myself, I approached the endeavour with a little trepidation as I did not know what to expect or what would be expected of me. It has been, however a mind-blowing and fantastic experience.

The generosity of people we have encountered along the way has our immeasurable gratitude. That the ride was so successful also gratifying. The GIST members and supporters who farewelled us in Montreal and then gave a hero’s welcome in Rocklands Park and again at the dinner that night - our hearts go out to you and we are humbled that we could have possibly contributed in some small way to furthering your quest for funding for research. The job is far from over and we will continue to be as supportive as we can in every way.

The riders: I am constantly in awe of the endurance and fortitude with which they cycled. Particular mention must go to Wayne, our brother in law who fulfilled his brother’s dream in 2006 and has indeed carried it on tirelessly to the success of another ride this year. His determination to pedal every painful mile speaks volumes about the dedicated man he is. A man of his word and one to be extremely proud of uncomplaining and steadfast – we are proud of you. Dylan, who at 11 years of age has blown people’s minds and attitudes away. So exhausted at the end of each day, but stoically getting on the bike again the next day aches and pains forgotten. Riette who despite telling us that she was only going part of the way, cycled MOST of the way – congratulations to you both. The guys, in no particular order all fantastic and awesome deserve nomination ; The two Bobs : Bob Murray and Bob Amidon – apart from being our course designers and map providers rode almost every mile. Lineu, Uwe, Pete, Phillip, Simon, John, Jacques, Bruce and Rae of course, the chaps who joined us along the way, Ken and Thomas – the ladies, Karen, Roxy and Suzie completing the most incredible team which Rae and Roxy and I were proud to be part of.

The SAG vehicle had surprisingly few passengers over the 10 days. Sore muscles and fatigue aside the cyclists were amazing.

The support drivers: Steve and Johnny. What can I say? These two guys selflessly agreed to come along as the drivers of the two big vehicles. It is a thankless task, and they are unsung heroes. Holding the threads together and supporting the team at every turn. Some nights they were last in bed and every morning they were up by 5a.m.

Super guys who before they arrived in Montreal did not know a single person on the cycle team nor had any allegiance to any one there. Wouter without whom we would have really battled – riding up ahead to make sure that the cyclists got onto the correct turn, taking action photos of them all whizzing by and of course making sure that there would be a couple of flasks of hot coffee for the morning breaks. Marcia who opened her heart and home to us all thanks so much for the Maine hospitality and continued support and Cindy who joined us near the end. How fantastic that you both took time out of your busy lives to share this with everyone. New friendships and bonds have been formed and hopefully as Wayne has stated we will not have to wait three years for a reunion. It was very sad to have to say good bye eventually. All things do have to end, though and after all the hype and preparation difficult to realise that this years ride is really over.

Take care Friends and may all you dream of become reality. With all our love from Down Under,

Irena, Rae and Roxy Davies

I have lumps in my throat when I read your note. Remember that some of us got our inspiration from you. Well done and use all of this to build your character and you will go far in life.

For me it was a great life changing event and I am glad to have participated and rode for the cause.

Regards,

John Swingler

I feel very honored to have been able to parttake in just a small way in this challenge by helping with support for one day. What an incredible group of people I have had the privilege of getting to know in a very special and intense way! Your lives have touch mine in a deep and everlasting manner. I will never tire of Bob’s tales of adventures while in your company.

PM

Some thoughts and comments I wanted to share about the ride:

For me the ride was an opportunity to renew and strengthen friendships I had made during the 2006 ride, and make many more new ones. This was a truly great group of people to share this experience with. I feel very fortunate to have been part of this event to raise funds and awareness for GIST.

It was a unique perspective to have both the role of a rider and support person. Working with Johnny, Steve, and Wouter was a pure joy. All being totally focused, calm and demonstrating such care for all the participants.

I had the opportunity to briefly meet Peter Thomas in ‘06 at a hospice in London with Wayne, and John and Debbie Hebert. I loved his spirit and enthusiasm for the adventure we were about to start. His only regret being not able to join us as planned. It has been a privilege to be part of both these rides as a memorial to Peter and in support of all the people who suffer from this terrible disease.

Best wishes to everyone,

Bob Murray

“I am sitting here thinking of words to say how I felt about the ride and can’t think of anything to say. I find that the reason is probably because there are no real words to explain the feeling.”

I couldn’t agree with Dylan more. It’s about the uncanny ability of people to come together, from different places, with different backgrounds, languages, etc. and make the whole thing work out wonderfully. Just think about it for a moment. The ride pushes us to our physical limits, requires that we share rooms, food, and the like. We tend to smell as the day progresses, we expel gases and fluids from our bodies, and our butt’s hurt like hell. Our support personnel have to drive at a snail’s pace all day, pamper the riders, and listen to our whining. Yet – we all have fun! We don’t think back or ahead too much we simply carry on.

How and why do we do this? Here’s what I think:

Having met Peter in hospice shortly before the ride, I got a sense of his attitude and spirit. He struck me as an ambitious person with a goal. Completely contrary to what one would expect from someone in his condition, even while in hospice Peter championed on! Intending to establish permanent aid and support for those that suffer from the same terrible illness he had. Peter ride is about life, about living life to its fullest, and about living for the moment. Which is what we do on the ride, which it what gives us the wherewithal to endure the pain.

Today, and with the help of Wayne, Riette, Dylan and others, Peter’s spirit lives on. The “ride” is his legacy and we are the lucky ones to be carrying it out. Hopefully it will outlive us all and as such we’ll leave our own small legacy of hope and support for people in need.

John

Seeing the GIST participants/support group at Sugarloaf brought back great memories. It is amazing the warmth that the group brings together when we gathered after the rides.

This weekend, I was in Montreal/Ottawa for a family gathering and yesterday, I had the opportunity to drive from Montreal to Sugarloaf. As I drove from Sherbrook, Quebec to Maine, I was envisioning the GIST cyclist/support drivers going through the mountains. The hills that were in view from one mountain to the next were definitely intimidating and to think that you rode your bikes on through these mountains... WOW! Incredible!!

I'm thankful to have had the opportunity to have met the group when they stopped at Sugarloaf for one night, and again, was able to reunite at Bob and Marcia's home for a great dinner/evening.

Congratulations to all, it's such an accomplishment.

What a touching testament to you! This group of GIST cyclists have forever changed my thinking and given me true inspiration. I have not experienced such camaraderie, teamwork, energy and indeed love for each other and the memory of a man who started such a dream. There is hope - you have just proved it to me and I am very thankful to you for coming into my life. The world sure needs more of you -- keep up the good work.

“A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others.” Simple, everyday actions performed by extraordinary people. Such a love story I will never forget. Peter is smiling and very proud!

Kathy Abbott

Firstly, there is absolutely no excuse but maybe the tardiness of this note is in sync with my speed on the New England hills !!

Riette, your fortitude and emotional strength in handling the GIST 2009 event was truly amazing. Despite the continous buzz and light-hearted banter that always seems to be present with a bunch of cyclists I was always aware of your quiet inner peace.

Dylan, your daily perfomance was nothing less outstanding. I do hope you are still enjoying all the bragging rights you so well deserve at school. Please make sure in your letter to 'Father Christmas' you include a set of cleats - not that you need to go any further or faster but it will take the pressure off your legs and feet - the diiference will be remarkable.

Wayne, what can I say, a true solid gentleman with a heart sized for your 'old body'. Also, the best of the bunch to pick up to be drafted, rock steady - no antics.

For me, it was one of those very few 'once in a lifetime' experiences. A wonderful group of like-minded people from all over the world getting together for a common cause, taking the strain (physically and emotionally) for a better future for somebody less fortunate than ourselves. The extent to which I was spoilt by you all on my 70th birthday is permanently engraved in my long term memory.

For all of us who have lost someone very close, GIST 2009 was and still is a deeply entrenched in of our lives.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of such a rewarding experience.

Please keep in touch with all your news, take care

Fondest regards

John O'Regan

Some thoughts on the 2009 event. Everything about our ride was absolutely fantastic, this ticked all the boxes and we met our goals with some style. We rode as a team and re-ignited and built new and lasting friendships. Through the spirit and cameradery of the team we were able to reach out to people on our journey and to inform about this terrible disease. We have helped to raise awareness and also shown that small actions can help to make a difference. This adventure was a challenge on so many levels: physical, mental and emotional. Peter would have been so proud, as well as raising awareness and money he also wanted these rides to challenge the team and for the team to have fun.

Many people played a part in making this a success. our Routemasters; Bob 'Four Fingers' Amidon and Bob 'Cadence' Murray, the Support team; Muffin man, Cup Cake, Irena, Wouter, Marcia 'I am blowing kisses not telling your to turn Left' Murray, Kelly, PM and Cindy; the Organisers; Wayne, Phil, John, the Two Bobs, Kathy. Without you we would not have been able to do this. You were brilliant and have set the bar very high.

I was blown away by the generosity and hospitality of all the people we met on the ride. Everybody was genuinely interested in what we were doing and offered support in so many ways. Donations (the smallest being the biggest - who will forget the old lady in Brewer giving Wayne her last quarters), accomodation (thanks Marg, Brock, John and Debbie), bicycles repaired, gatoraid, food (LOBSTER nogal) and much more besides.

The ride was magnificent, through incredible country, stopping for delicious lunches in places of some beauty. I have favourites including, the lakes on our second day, the 'Mom and Pop' store when Bruce and I got lost, the beach in Maine and the day we had 'popovers ??' My only regret is not being able to stop as often as I would have liked, but then we have a store of magnificent photos to remind us of where we have been.

It seems as though everybody tested themselves to the limit and beyond, personal goals and distances fell on a daily basis. Wayne, Riette and Dylan, you guys should be especially proud of what you have achieved. I haven't got the Maths Book out, but Dylan with your single chain ring and small wheels you surely pedalled twice the distance of the rest of us on our big bikes. You have the Heart of a Lion. In some ways I am not looking forward to 2012 as the tables will be turned, a young buck against an old Bull.

I thank you all for your company and friendship during this ride and look forward to SA. I also thank Maddie, Matthew, Anna and Ben for supporting me and giving me the time to do this. I was hoping to keep the next ride a secret until closer to the time, unfortunately the 'cat is out the bag' -- her Aunt dobbed me in. BUT, I have been given the green light -- yipppeeee.

On the Saddle

Lavaman