When I first read about AIDS/LifeCycle (ALC)—a 7-day, 545-mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles—it immediately appealed to me. Combining a physical challenge with raising funds for such an important cause was inspiring. I was eligible for a one-month sabbatical from work at the time, but a high-priority project launching on June 11, 2013, made me unsure if I could commit. When my sabbatical request was approved in December 2012, I was thrilled.
Preparing for AIDS/LifeCycle
Despite my excitement, I had a few concerns as the ride approached. Seven days of camping, using portable toilets, and going without a real bed or shower sounded less than ideal. But once the ride began, those worries disappeared.
From the very first day, the riders’ and roadies’ energy and passion (volunteers) were incredible. Everyone was friendly, supportive, and eager to connect. Riders went out of their way to help each other. I’ll never forget when I got a flat tire, and my friend David stopped to keep me company. As I fixed the tire, he gave every passing rider a thumbs-up, creating a moment of camaraderie I’ll never forget.
The People and the Cause
What stood out most about ALC was the diversity of the people involved. Riders and roadies came from all walks of life—different fitness levels, backgrounds, nationalities, races, and ages. There were LGBTQ+ riders, straight allies, HIV-positive participants, and HIV-negative supporters. Everyone had a story about why they were there, and every interaction felt meaningful.
In 2013, ALC was historic. With the help of thousands of donors, 2,203 cyclists and 552 roadies raised $14.2 million to support services for those affected by HIV and AIDS in California. Knowing we were part of something that made such a significant impact was humbling.
Everyone was so invested in this. Everyone had a heartfelt story about why they became involved with AIDS/LifeCycle.
A Typical Day on AIDS/LifeCycle
Each day started early, around 5 a.m. After packing tents and dropping bags at designated trucks, riders had breakfast before heading out. Daily routes ranged from 44 to 109 miles, with rest stops every 15-20 miles. These stops were a lifesaver, offering snacks, water, Gatorade, bike repairs, medical help, and entertainment.
The scenery was breathtaking. We rode through rolling plains, strawberry fields, avocado groves, vineyards, and along the Pacific Coast Highway. Some days were short and hilly, while others were long and flat. The beauty of California’s landscapes was matched only by the warmth and support of everyone involved in the ride.
Life at Camp
Arriving at camp each day was a celebration. Roadies greeted riders with cheers, and we parked our bikes in a massive, secure area. After grabbing our luggage, we set up tents and headed to the shower trucks—semi-trailers with private stalls and surprisingly excellent water pressure. (A tip for future riders: don’t forget to pack a towel!)
Evenings were filled with dinner, announcements, and occasional fun like board games or outings to nearby restaurants. But by 8 p.m., most of us were winding down, preparing for the next day’s ride.
The ALC ride and everyone involved provided a pristine example of how an ideal society might function.
Reflecting on AIDS/LifeCycle 2013
ALC was more than a physical journey—it was deeply emotional. Without music or distractions, there was plenty of time to think. Memories of loved ones lost to HIV/AIDS, including my Uncle Doug, came flooding back. I also thought about my black lab, Ruby, who had passed earlier that year, my grandma, who died of lung cancer in 2012, and all the people affected by HIV/AIDS. Many moments brought tears to my eyes.
One of the most powerful experiences was the candlelight vigil on the beach in Ventura on Day Six. Seeing thousands of people gathered, united in purpose, was unforgettable.
Finishing AIDS/LifeCycline 2013 Strong
We rode 60 miles from Ventura to Los Angeles on the final day. It was a relatively easy ride, with rolling hills and stunning ocean views. Crossing the finish line was overwhelming. My friends Mike, Zack, Scott, and Shawn were there to cheer me on, and I said goodbye to new friends from all over the country.
A Moment That Stuck with Me
One night at dinner, our team table filled up, and I ended up sitting across from a man with disabilities who communicated using an iPad. Despite his challenges, his determination to participate in ALC was clear. I didn’t get to say everything I wanted to him, but I admired him deeply. Tears filled my eyes as I walked back to my tent, thinking about the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Grateful for the Experience
AIDS/LifeCycle was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I’m so thankful to my employer for giving me the time to participate and the donors who made it possible. ALC wasn’t just a ride—it was a glimpse into what a compassionate, supportive community can achieve when united by a common goal.
AIDSLifeCycle 2013. A recap of the ride, and the experience from a first-time rider. http://t.co/N8kfuxe5yx #alc2013
My friend @garrettn’s 1st @AIDSLifeCycle experience. @zshubkagel & I are excited to join next year! http://t.co/Qj4Xbg8cfR #alc2013
RT @realtormike: My friend @garrettn’s 1st @AIDSLifeCycle experience. @zshubkagel & I are excited to join next year! http://t.co/Qj4Xbg8cfR…
Rest Stop 3 Day 1 Day 1 was also the start of the camping adventure. I am not much of a camper, a trooper but not a camper (hee hee). So this was the part of the adventure I was dreading the most. After you drop off your bike at bike parking, you have to walk quite a distance to your assigned U-haul to pick up your luggage and tent. Then tramp across a camp ground to your assigned 8′ x 8′ plot of grass and set up your tent (all in your cycling shoes & cleats). After the first few days it became routine and not a big deal.
I’m sad to miss @AIDSLifeCycle this year. 1st-time riders, veterans, here’s a recap of my experience. #alc14 http://t.co/N8kfuwX2wx
RT @garrettn: I’m sad to miss @AIDSLifeCycle this year. 1st-time riders, veterans, here’s a recap of my experience. #alc14 http://t.co/N8…
RT @garrettn: I’m sad to miss @AIDSLifeCycle this year. 1st-time riders, veterans, here’s a recap of my experience. #alc14 http://t.co/N8…