07/26/2026
I haven’t had the opportunity to post over the last few days, but I wanted to check in!
First, I want to say thank you to all of my patients for your patience while I’ve been away. I know some of you are waiting on responses to messages, and I truly appreciate your understanding. I’ll be catching up as quickly as possible.
Now…let me tell you about RAGBRAI!
RAGBRAI is the world’s largest recreational bicycle ride, and this year there were approximately 38,000 riders from across the country and around the world. Over the course of the week, we rode approximately 409 miles across the beautiful state of Iowa, and I can honestly say it has been one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had.
Every town we rode through welcomed us with open arms. It wasn’t just a bike ride—it felt like a celebration across the entire state of Iowa. Many towns hosted festivals with local vendors, live music, delicious food, and activities for riders. It truly felt like the red carpet had been rolled out for us.
Along the route, the kindness of the people was simply overwhelming. Residents set up tents to sell homemade goods, while others handed out free snacks, ice-cold water, and encouragement. Many opened their yards so weary cyclists could stop and rest. Some even carried couches from inside their homes out into the yard for complete strangers to relax on! Others set up sprinklers to help cool us off in the summer heat.
And then there were all the little surprises that made each mile memorable. Iowa is full of beautiful farmland, so many farmers proudly parked their massive, shiny tractors and combines along the roadside for everyone to admire. We passed classic cars displayed on front lawns, saw Amish buggies, stopped to pet a tiny pig, snuggled a friendly goat, and enjoyed countless moments that made us smile.
One of my favorite parts was seeing families simply sitting in lawn chairs, waving as thousands of cyclists rode by. It felt like we were part of a giant hometown parade every single day.
We also had the privilege of riding through many small communities. One thing that touched me was learning that many of these host towns use the proceeds from food, drinks, and other sales during RAGBRAI to fund projects that benefit their communities. For example, the tiny town of Green Mountain, Iowa, with a population of only about 70 people, plans to use its proceeds to help restore its historic windmill. What an incredible example of neighbors coming together to preserve their community.
The ride itself has also been an adventure. Each day, after spending hours in the saddle, we still had to set up our campsite for the night. Then, before sunrise the next morning, we packed everything back up, took down our tent, loaded our gear, and got ready to do it all again. It definitely gave me a new appreciation for bike camping and the determination it takes to keep moving forward day after day.
This ride has reminded me that there is still so much kindness, generosity, and community in the world. It’s been physically challenging, but every mile has been worth it.
Thank you again for your patience while I’ve been making memories on this incredible journey. I’ll be back in the office soon, refreshed, inspired, and ready to continue helping each of you on your own health journeys.
This has truly been an unforgettable adventure, and I’m so grateful to have experienced it. ❤️🚴🌽.
