Post Tour DaVita

Today’s post is a little off subject, but I thought you might enjoy reading about last week’s ride. I feel a sense of accomplishment after 3 days of exploring western Michigan on a bicycle with 349 other Tour DaVita participants. The event, sponsored by The Kidney Trust raised over $650,000 to help provide early kidney disease screening and education throughout the country.

The first day I had an introduction to the rolling hills of western Michigan and the serene back roads showcasing farms and produce–lots or corn and soybeans. Along with many DaVita teammates and friends I rode 67 miles today–my longest ride ever.

Michigan corn field

Day 2 Tour DaVita

Day 2 greeted us with light  rain, or as the Backroads crew called it–spritzing (it’s still wet no matter what you call it!).  We stopped by the DaVita Newaygo Dialysis center in Fremont for a rally which included presentations by 2 of the center’s patients–one who had a recent kidney transplant. Their words were inspiring. For many in the crowd this reminder of who we are riding for and why was so motivating–a little rain no longer mattered. The Fremont High band played as we took off for the ride.

Cherry Orchard

The hills on day 2 were challenging to say the least. I admit I walked my bike a few times. I loved the scenery–ran across a pumpkin patch, asparagus fields, more corn fields and fruit orchards–cherry, apple and plum trees. What a beautiful site! Sticking with a low potassium diet must be easier when local grown low potassium fruit choices are so readily available. 45 miles total today.

Day 3 was sunny and not as hilly. Lake Michigan appeared often on this route. I rode with fellow dietitian Christine from Florida and enjoyed great conversation as well as the beauty of the ride. Christine is very passionate about diabetes and teaching patients to manage their glucose. She has first hand experience caring for her husband, who had diabetes and kidney disease requiring dialysis.

Lake Michigan

My personal best today was 54 miles. A high point was greeting the DaVita Village mayor, Kent Thiry as he arrived at the last refreshment stop.

Onward to the finish line where we celebrated and welcomed other riders as they completed the tour. Next year…I have a 166 mile record to break!

The finish line