Thoughts From A Cross-Country Cycling Trip

Jason Lowman is almsot home.

The sailor stationed at Joint Base Charleston has been cycling across the country to raise money and awareness for local cancer programs and the Jerry Zucker Ride for Hope. He's raised roughly $40,000 and travelled nearly 4,000 miles.

on the last leg of his ride or at the finish line party Saturday.

He sent this message to Patch earlier this week about his journey:

It began as an idea and turned into a plan. Over a year in the making and my 4,000 mile solo cross-country trip is coming to a close.  The thing with a plan is, it always changes. I learned that instead of spending time on planning, to devote my time preparing. If you rely on a plan, you are most definitely going to be let down. You can prepare yourself though for many different situations that you come across. Boy, did I come across a variety of situations.

The journey has been difficult but for as difficult as its been, it has been equally as rewarding. I set out to inspire hope and I ended up finding plenty as well. Along the way I took two detours, the first being to Joplin, Mo., to volunteer with the tornado relief efforts. Even though its been 2 1/2 months since the tornado hit back in May, all I saw was complete devastation. When I met with locals though, the mood was different. They don't want pity, they want help rebuilding. Even with their homes gone and loved ones lost, they are thankful for today and they look forward to what tomorrow will bring. They have hope and that speaks volumes. If Joplin and its residents can fill themselves with hope, then we can too, no matter what comes our way.

The second detour was to the Cardinals Kids Cancer Center in St. Louis. Cancer doesn't discriminate and that is why it hits you right in your heart when you meet these children. Once again, they don't ask for pity. They want your love and your attention. They are fighters, just as strong as their adult counterparts. They inspired me and they are my heroes.

I've pedaled through some amazing places but truthfully, its been about the people. People who come at you with their palms down, bearing donations, water, food and lodging. They don't flip their hands over to ask for anything in return. I've laughed and cried with complete strangers. I have so many "adopted" mothers and family members across the country now to keep in touch with. My heart was rebuilt and I know that it's 10x bigger than when I started.

This ride wasn't for me though. It was for the 4,000 people diagnosed with cancer every day and for those that have passed from this terrible disease. Our mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, children, friends and coworkers. I want as many people to come out and pedal with me as I pull in to Sullivan's Island this Saturday to show everyone that we have hope too. Hope that one day, the word cancer will be a distant memory.