I rode last year (2017) for the first time. I ride for the camaraderie. Although my dad cannot be here physically, he is still here supporting this fight against pancreatic cancer. Along with the thousands of others who show up for this ride.
On May 17th 2008, my father, Richard Varela, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Ten years later, his memory lives on strongly. I love that I can ride at the Tour de Pier alongside others to keep his fight and memory alive.
One thing that helped me through his passing was the quote, “heroes die but legends live forever.” My father is a legend. I will continue to ride on for him and to fight this disease.