My name is Abby and I am racing in my first sprint triathlon at the Rhoades McKee Reeds Lake Triathlon on September 8th! I wanted a new challenge and what better way than a tri??! In my free time you can find me hiking on a trail with my cattle dog, riding through GR every Wednesday with 40+ other bikers, or hanging out at the lakeshore. 

 Although Gilda's Club is something very special to me, it was not a part of my personal encounter with cancer. I lost my Mom to a brain tumor in 2012. Her sickness and death have been something that I have had to cope with in all seasons of my life and to know that there is a service to help those like myself, means the absolute world to me. I moved to Grand Rapids 3 years ago and had not heard about Gilda's Club before, but I will never forget the first time I stepped foot in the Grand Rapids clubhouse. Gilda's will always hold a very special place in my heart and I am SO excited to be able to help raise funds and awareness for such a great organization during my first triathlon! I will be racing in memory of my Mom (Laurie Deierlein), and my friends Ryan Garrison and Andrew Pompilius. 

For those of you donating and are unaware of Gilda's services: Gilda's Club provides free counseling and support for those going through the cancer and/or grief journey for all ages. I am happy to answer any questions you may have about the impact your donation has. 

Thank you for your support! I appreciate it so much.