Late last year a dear friend of mine was diagnosed with stage one lung cancer. Right during the holiday season Val Folkema was undergoing surgery to have the upper lobe of her right lung removed.

Val has always been known as a strong, organized, inspirational person to everyone around her. She helped motivate me to quit smoking, and that is really saying something! Through her roles in countless community organizations she has truly made a difference in the lives of those around her and accomplished more than we could ever imagine.

That is why this years ride is dedicated to Val.

I have signed up to ride the 55 mile section.

As a show of support to myself and to Val if I meet my donation goal of $1500 dollars I will up my ride to the 80 mile leg!

If we double my goal and raise $3000 I will really torture myself and ride the entire 104 miles!

All monies raised go to the American Lung Association in Oregon

With Vals approval and support I am reaching out to all of you to show your support for this incredible woman and to continue to be my motivation to better myself and those around me.

Please show your support by visiting my Rider Page or by contacting me directly by using the link at the top of the page.

You can find my rider page here - http://action.lungusa.org/goto/johnramer

UPDATE 2-23-2010

Just purchased a new road bike for the ride!

With carbon fibre parts intermixed with upper end components this is by far the biggest investment into this ride I could have made!

If you have not made your donation yet, don't worry, there is still time! See you soon!

UPDATE 2/27/2010

A few training photos - Click for larger