I am riding because the American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure is so much more than a cycling event to me, it's personal for me! I know first-hand the affects of diabetes. My father Stanley Sherman had many serious medical problems, all of which were related to being diabetic, and ultimately the cause of his death just over 6 years ago. I will ride to remember him and to honor so many other family members who are currently dealing with diabetes, including my mother and brother. And since diabetes can be hereditary, I will ride with hopes that a cure is found so that our children will never have to deal with diabetes, because diabetes not only runs on both sides of my family, but in my husband?s family too!

I am committed to ride and raise money in this inspirational event not only because 26 million people in the United States have diabetes, but because it has personally impacted my family, and I want to do something about it. Won?t you help me start a chain reaction?

Chances are, you also know someone who has been affected by diabetes and you already know how important it is to stop this disease. By making a donation on my behalf or by joining my team, you will be helping the Association provide community-based education programs, protect the rights of people with diabetes and fund critical research for a cure.

This is my opportunity to change the future and make a positive impact in the lives of those who are affected by diabetes. With your help we will fight for a future where a parent does not have to hear that their child has diabetes. A future where an adult does not have to face the uncertain times ahead after receiving a diabetes diagnosis. A future where an adult child does not have to lose a parent to complications from diabetes. A future where you and I will know that we had a part in making this possible.

I truly appreciate your support. Together we can Stop Diabetes!