Richard's Cycling Journey: Passion, Perseverance, and Community

Richard has been deeply involved in cycling since 2010. Though his main passion is skiing, riding his bike is one of his favorite things to do. His commitment to the cycling community is evident through his long-standing involvement with the Van Purser Foundation. “I’ve been involved with the Van Purser Foundation from pretty much the very beginning,” Richard shared. “I was on the board for a while but had to step back due to other commitments. For so many reasons, the Van Purser Foundation holds a special place in my heart.”

Where it all began

Richard's journey into cycling began when he bought a bike in 2010 and quickly immersed himself in Lifetime Fitness’ cycling group. “By 2012, I was leading rides and eventually got a job as the cycle coordinator. That’s where I met Van. He’d come to our rides and was instrumental in helping me understand group riding dynamics.”

Overcoming adversity

Richard then opened up about a particularly challenging period in his life. “I was laid off from Dell in February 2020, just as the pandemic started.

Finding a job was nearly impossible. It took me 22 months to find other employment. During that time, I had a serious cycling accident. I broke my wrist and three ribs.”

His medical insurance through Dell had just ended, and the financial strain of paying for COBRA during this time was significant. “One day, Jackie Tyson from the Van Purser Foundation showed up at my door with a check, covering my COBRA payments for four months. It was an incredible blessing I didn’t expect. That support helped me immensely.”

Moving forward with positivity

Despite the challenges he was navigating, Richard stayed positive. He found work as a school bus driver to make ends meet while continuing his job search. Just as his fourth month of COBRA was coming to an end, his medical insurance through Forsyth County kicked it. The timing was miraculous. Eventually, he landed a job with Super Micro, where he is today.

The power of community

Richard’s story is a testament to resilience and a profound narrative of passion, perseverance, and the incredible power of community. “The Van Purser Foundation is unique. It’s the only organization that supports cyclists in times of need. Whether you think you need it or not, having that support and knowing someone cares make all the difference. It’s been a journey. I’m grateful for the support and the blessings I’ve received along the way.”

His story reminds us that in the face of adversity, the support of a caring community can light the way forward. The Van Purser Foundation not only aids cyclists in their time of need but also fosters a sense of belonging and unwavering support that can transform lives. Richard’s experience is a powerful reminder that we are never alone on our journeys; together, we can overcome any obstacle. It’s reassurance that no matter what life throws at us, we have a community that’s got our back!