My name is Doug Bearden. In 1986, I was diagnosed with HIV – that makes me almost a 25 year survivor! On May 20-23rd, 2010 I will be participating in my third NorCal AIDS Challenge. I feel very fortunate to still be here and have the physical and mental prowess to be a part of this adventure. I became involved with the event when a fellow NCAC cyclist friend recruited me as a crew member in 2008.

 
The NorCal AIDS Challenge in May, 2008 coincided with the first heat wave of the year. It was my first NCAC and I volunteered as a crew member. Record breaking temperatures of over 100 degrees the first 3 days were intensified by the heat rising from the asphalt,  and 20 mile an hour (not so cooling) head winds the entire 91 miles of Day One. I was captivated by these cyclists' enduring efforts to continue on. With the close relationships they had forged, the camaraderie they shared, and the common goal that kept them going, the focus of the journey shifted from the elements to the fun journey they were on. I never felt such gratitude as I did when I pulled up to a cyclist with a cooler full of ice!

The NCAC brings us all together for the same unifying reason; to raise much needed funds for HIV/AIDS services in Sacramento. As a bonus, we get to do what we love – for some of us that’s cycling and for some, it’s the opportunity to spend 4 days with our closest friends. It impressed me considerably that everyone involved in the ride, from the caterers to the crew, donated their time and resources to support this cause.

I had no idea what I was in for that last day we all arrived on the West steps of the Capitol building. The crew gathered first and we watched as the great group of cyclists , crew first then the riders rode toward us. I was happy but quite sad that it was over and had lots of tears rolling down my face knowing what these riders had just accomplished. They were all heroes to me.

In 2009 I made the decision to ride, not only to see if I could achieve the 330 miles in 4 days but to once again give back to the HIV/AIDS services that have been given to me so freely here in Sacramento. I also wanted to remember the many friends I have lost over the years and to hopefully further advance the efforts for a cure for this disease. Throughout my experience as a cyclist, I began to recognize everyone out of their riding gear and in their street clothes (don't you notice that all cyclists look the same?). Despite the great challenge, my own doubt, and that not-so-comfortable saddle, I completed every mile of the ride, forged more friendships, and felt a part of a bigger picture.
This May I ride again and have formed Team CARES (one of our three larger beneficiaries; AIDS Housing Alliance and Breaking Barriers are the other two recipients). Out of eleven teams we are currently third in fund raising (just behind Team Space 07 Salon and Broken Bikers) and continue to raise more funds. I personally continue my fund- raising efforts and if you would like to make a tax deductible contribution you can do so on my personal donation page at: http://norcalaidschallenge.kintera.org/ncac2010/saffy Nothing is too big or too small.
 

The NCAC’s importance increases every year. Between budget cuts and other funding losses, we work hard to try to fill in some gaps. If you want to ride with us or support the Ride, please visit http://www.norcalaidschallenge.net/. I’m excited this year to meet all the new participants, whether they are crewing, cycling for 4 days, or cycling for 2 days in the new “Weekender” option.
If I can do it, ANYone can do it! See you out there!