RIDE FOR ALEX

It’s really hard to believe that a year has gone by when it seems like it was just last week that our lives were turned upside down. 

Now we live this new life that we didn’t ask for nor want.  However, Alex would want us to be strong and push forward; and so, we do that every day. 

Andrew and I moved back in to our home sometime in November.  That was a big move considering we had been living in the safety and comfort of Carol and Mike’s home who embraced and carried us when we needed it the most.  But it was the right time and the right place for us to return to.  Our home is filled with wonderful family memories that no other place would provide. Although it may not be long term, it’s the right place now.

Soon, Andrew will embark on his next journey.  In August he will begin school at Florida Gulf Coast.  I am excited for him and can’t wait to hear about all the great things he will be experiencing.  It will be strange not having him at home but he will only be two hours away so I will be able to helicopter in at a moment’s notice. 😁 

I also want to share that Anthony is doing well and is now on medication that has really helped with his depression and anxiety.  He has also developed a great interest in Buddhism which has taught him the art of meditation.  This is how he has been able to survive and handle all of this tragedy that he unfortunately now, is well aware of. 

Finally, I want to share that we have a new addition to the family.  In January, Charlie entered our lives.  He is a mini Goldendoodle with so much love to give. He keeps us on our toes as he is still very much a puppy.  However, he is really smart and coming along well. My favorite trick is when I say “belly” and he rolls on his back so I can rub his stomach.  He warms our heart.  He also has a special bond with his Grammy Patty who visits with him regularly and takes him for walks.

I would like to thank all of you for your love and support this past year.  I feel blessed to have you all in our lives. The family is looking forward to seeing all of you at the second annual Ride for Alex.

Alex really enjoyed encouraging as many people as possible to get on a bike and roll.  So, to continue that tradition, we will once again be donating bikes to kids in need in Alex’s name.  If you would like to contribute, you can make a donation on the registration page.

In closing, I will leave you with the words of Bob Marley: “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”

Much love to you all,

Ivette

Optional - RIDE FOR ALEX t-shirts are available for purchase through this registration site. Men's and Women's sizes are available and orders must be placed by July 11.  If you purchase a t-shirt during registration, we will hand them out the morning of the ride and we hope that you will wear it on the ride.

The RIDE FOR ALEX will begin at the South Tampa YMCA, which is located at 4411 S Himes Ave, Tampa, FL 33611. We will then all ride together under police escort to the Seaplane Basin Park (650 Severn Ave, Tampa, FL 33606) on Davis Islands. After some light refreshments, we will ride back to the South Tampa YMCA.

If you would like to participate in the celebration but would rather not ride your bike, please meet us at 10:30 am at Seaplane Basin Park, 650 Severn Ave, Tampa, FL 33606.

If you are interested in volunteering for this event, please contact Jenna Grooms by July 28, 2021 at jgrooms@growyourevent.com