2011 Ride for Hope Director's Message

Dear Friends, Thank you for your interest in supporting the 6th Annual Ride for Hope. The Ride for Hope is a cycling event, family festival, Vendor Expo and Health Fair. It also provides a time to remember those we've lost, cheer on those who are fighting and an opportunity to spread hope and celebrate life! These are all the things my dear friend – and the Ride's creator – Lou Farrah, envisioned. I stand behind this community event because I believe in Lou’s vision to bring hope to cancer patients and their family members right here in the Big Bend region. To that end, the Ride for Hope raises funds for the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center and the people it serves. The Tallahassee Memorial Cancer program offers nationally-recognized cancer care. The American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer awarded the TMH Cancer program “Accreditation with Commendation.” Fewer than 20% of the nationally-accredited cancer programs have this prestigious designation. Yet, many in the community feel as though they must leave town to receive the best treatment. One of our goals is to dispel that notion by getting out the message – there is quality “Cancer Care Close to Home” at Tallahassee Memorial. The new facility serves as the setting for the introduction of new cancer treatment options and will make way for the enhancement and expansion of existing cancer treatments, prevention initiatives and educational programs. “With powerful new technology, the most experienced Tallahassee physicians, clinicians and team of navigators to support cancer patients, the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center offers an unprecedented level of treatment options,” said Joseph Camps, M.D. and Chair of the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Board of Directors. Being the Ride Director is an honor and a privilege, and I invite you to join the Ride for Hope Team. The proceeds from the Ride for Hope will change the lives of many, and will offer hope to those who need it the most. There are so many ways to be involved! If you are interested in participating in Ride for Hope Vendor Expo please contact Harry Smith at 850-210-2256 or lipoutputt@comcast.net or Jenny Farrah at 850-491-6088 or jfarrah@embarqmail.com If you are interested in participating in the Ride for Hope Health Fair please contact Theresa Shannon at 850-431-5566 or Theresa.shannon@tmh.org Please contact me with questions, thoughts, ideas or suggestions – I am always here to listen and would love to hear from you. See you at the 2011 Ride for Hope, and thank you so much for your support! Register -- and Ride for Hope. Sponsor -- and give hope. Spread the word to your friends and colleagues -- and encourage hope. Sincerely,

Tina Darnell
Ride Director
info@ride4hope.com