Hopkins 4K for Cancer

June 24, 2007

by Jerome Fox
On this much-needed day off, the 4 K bunch woke up earlier than we would have liked. In the crowded basement in which we slept, many cell phones, watches, and alarm clocks went off prematurely, angering some of the lighter sleepers. True to her word, Michelle steam-rolled the riders she suspected of owning the offending devices. In her excitement, however, one roll became a jump; Dewey cried in pain. Thus, there came an explosion of giggles, groans, and slightly-less-than-pleasant requests for peace and quiet. Greg, who turned 21 the night before, was the main perpetrator of the latter.
The day can best be described with a single word: lazaliciousness. Many spent the afternoon in the basement watching movies, waiting for their laundry, and calling friends. When outside the house, though, most could be found at Strikers. Having been given free reign of the diner the day before, we made many smoothies and coffees. We were also treated to two incredibly meals prepared by Carole and Chris. Their friendly demeanor and unwavering kindness seemed to be endless. All in all, the day off in this small town was filled with extreme relaxation, delicious diner creations, and spectacular rider conversations.
While we enjoyed our time with each other, we also met some extraordinary locals. In a circle of neighbors in Carole and Chris’ yard, we introduced ourselves, gave our reasons for riding, and encouraged their town hosts to talk. In this way, we met one woman with a daughter battling brain cancer and several elderly people who had beaten cancer decades ago. As usual, we cheered the survivors on, and we helped—we hope—instill courage in the concerned mother. Thus, in the yard, the film-rooted and culinary-based high points of our day were eclipsed by several unexpected yanks at the heart strings—several typically atypical reminders of our mission.
We ended our day back in front of the television. One last movie played; the last of the generously-donated snack food was eaten; and the riders fell asleep, some of them with heart palpitations from the large concentrations of sugar pulsing through their circulatory systems. The point of the day, of course: relax and enjoy the ride—make it bearable—but remember the unbearable strain of the friends and families of cancer victims, often robbed of relaxation, the greatest appreciators of fun.