Step back to last years’ Amazing Grace 5K. We had the honor and privilege to meet and push Michael in the Speed for Need racing chair. Well, Michael and his dog. His mom started the race pushing and his dad finished it. It was obvious from the start that he was tough and he was driven. But more than that, his family support was overwhelming. Such love and commitment to fight with him. That love and drive was on display again this year. Just one year later, Michael not only walked the 5K but sprinted to the finish. And he had his family around him, pouring into him all morning.
We had the honor and privilege this year to push Ava and Matias. Let’s start with Ava. She rode a couple weeks ago at Isabella Santos so it was clear from the first email that her and her mom were pros. All over it. The whole family was. Even Ava’s sister, Zoey, was ready to roll. She was jumping in the blue chair faster than we could get Ava in pink. It was the support of her sister riding that gave Ava the confidence and smiles to race.
It was Matias’ first time riding with Speed for Need but he couldn’t get the jersey on fast enough. That smile and thumbs up were seemingly on all morning. And it was incredibly heartwarming to watch his mom carry him across the finish line as she finished her walk. Then the whole family embraced. The love of this family unit was apparent from the moment they arrived.
All of these families have clearly embraced the journey. Not without challenges and setbacks and really hard stuff. But when love is present, it allows for healing and it promotes drive. Thank you Michael, Ava, and Matias for sharing your stories and giving the men of F3 Nation and Speed for Need the opportunity to be a part of your awesome journeys. And thank you to the Amazing Grace Foundation for your relentless support of this community. It is so incredible to watch as you support Grace’s mission with love and passion.