Hard to believe this is the 8th consecutive year I have committed to riding for the kids of Camp Simcha. It’s been a year of so many changes in our family. Covid-19 disrupted our lives, yet brought our family closer together as we all hunkered down at home for those first few months. We also had a year of loss. In the first months of 2020, both Mitch and I lost close relatives. And in November my Mom passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s disease at age 86. Thankfully, she was surrounded by our extended family for her final week after being isolated for many months in a memory care unit.

Last year our ride was modified to a shorter route at the Jersey Shore ending in lunch on the beach and dancing with a group of campers. I rode with my good friend Val Rubin who lost her daughter Chani to cancer at age 30. She was like a daughter to me and sister to the boys — and lives forever in our hearts.

As many of you know, I began this trek in 2014 as Daniel, then 11, was undergoing treatment for cancer. Hard to imagine those days as I look up to my 6’1” 210-pound strapping young man who just became a high school graduate.

I’m overflowing with pride as I reflect back on his years growing up, going through treatment, and who he has become. Daniel is an interesting combination — sensitive, thoughtful, kind, caring, deep, mature, funny, and resilient. He’s a wrestler/fitness expert and an amazing artist. He’s extremely focused and driven towards whatever he sets his heart on.

When we learned of Daniel’s diagnosis in 2013, we never could have imagined where we’d be today. The friendship, love, and incredible support from staff and volunteers at Chai Lifeline and Camp Simcha no doubt played a critical role in helping us and Daniel during his 2+ years of treatments. Their incredible support for countless families and more than 5,900 children is what inspires me to continue riding.

I reflect back to the despair I felt, especially in the beginning of our journey. And the heartbreak watching my son in pain and sadness. The volunteers at Chai Lifeline swooped into our lives and brought tremendous comfort, joy, and laughter into those gloomy days.

We will be forever indebted to this wonderful organization and the incredibly holy work they do.

On August 9th, we will ride a 65-mile route into Camp Simcha, also known as the Greatest Finish Line. I hope you’ll join me in partnership once again in this important mission. Please click on the button below to make a donation - every dollar helps! On behalf of the children of Chai Lifeline, thank you for your support.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Leslie

P.S. All donations are 100% tax deductible.