The tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School occurred during one of my first visits to Connecticut while in graduate school. Watching the news that day, it was surreal knowing this senseless act of violence had taken place only a few towns away. Although I was not directly affected by this event, indirectly I felt profound sadness and anguish for the families and community that were devastatingly impacted.
When I moved to Connecticut the following year to begin my career as a Physical Therapist, the emotional memories of that December day were still present. I wanted to make a difference in reducing gun violence, but I was unsure how. Being invited to ride with Team 26 has been my answer. I am riding with the purpose to help promote and support common sense gun laws. I believe there must be laws that prevent guns from getting into the hands of those who should not own them, like individuals who lack mental wellness.
As a Physical Therapist, some of our core values include: altruism, compassion, integrity, and social responsibility. These values apply to Team 26 as well. This remarkable group of individuals rides to honor victims of gun violence, to stand up and give a voice to those who have suffered and lost, to educate about common sense gun laws for the well being of others, and to help prevent further gun violence.
Riding with Team 26 is an honor. Not only do I ride because it is my passion and because of the challenge, I now ride for a greater purpose. In May I will ride to make a difference in the lives of those who have been affected by preventable gun violence and to honor the 20 children and 6 educators who lost their lives at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Sandy Hook Ride on Washington
Sandy Hook Ride on Washington
For the 6th time, 26 cyclists will ride to honor the 26 killed at the Sandy Hook School and all victims of gun violence, to raise awareness of the public health crisis of gun violence, and to support common sense measures to reduce it. We will ride Newtown, Connecticut to Washington, D.C. from May 5 to May 8, 2018 Our ride will take us towards and through states that are working to reduce gun violence. Until members of the Congress do their jobs and pass laws to make Americans safer instead of offering thoughts and prayers for victims, we will continue to ride.
Sandy Hook Ride on Washington