Nothing in this note will make you sad; there's no statistic or news that might cause you worry.

If you’ve been along with me for the ride (or run or walk) the past 12 years and into last summer, you know we’ve had enough of statistics and sadness.

Instead, I will tell you what the Young Survival Coalition gave to me — a way to stay upright and smiling when so much threatened my balance.

So this year is all about sharing the spirit of the YSC.

During last year's ride, it was a privilege to be among a group of people who routinely point out hazards in the road ahead, create pace lines to pull others along, wait at the bottoms of hills to put a hand at the back of someone who needs help to the top. Yes, take the miles as metaphor.

This 220-mile ride is a three-day display of the YSC's purpose — giving breast-cancer survivors an energizing and healing sense of belonging, the assurance that someone is mapping a course for their well-being, and the confidence that they can climb any hill.

Last summer — when I thought I was riding for others — the ride gave to me. Strength. Connection. Validation. A way to keep moving. A reason to smile.

And I’m not a survivor. Imagine what the YSC does for those who need it most.

I’m honored to be accepted again as one of 150 cyclists who will create a moving ribbon of pink over 220 miles, for three days, across two states. To demonstrate how dedicated I am to this cause, I will be riding about 100 miles each week leading up to the Oct. 3 event. And I'll do it all without eating any chocolate until I hit Hershey. You see? That's dedication!

What can you do? Have plenty of cold Gatorade on hand in case I ride by. And, please, donate to the YSC, the only international organization dedicated to the unique needs of young women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Your contribution will help to change women’s lives. I know. I’ve met the women.