Wanda’s Ride
On June 28, 2013, Wanda Roche’s life changed in an instant. Having just biked to the top of the 12,126-foot summit of Cottonwood Pass on Day 5 of the Bicycle Tour of Colorado, Wanda celebrated with friends and began the descent down the Eastern side.
Image courtesy: Wanda’s Ride
Three minutes later, another cyclist lost control and collided with Wanda, catapulting her off the road and into a ravine 30 feet below. Wanda landed in a creek, shattering several vertebrae, and fracturing ribs and her right arm. It soon became apparent to rescuers that Wanda had also suffered a serious spinal cord injury, leaving her paralyzed from chest down.
Wanda will be released from Craig Hospital in Englewood, CO in early September, returning to her home in Fort Collins. She is a single mother of three wonderful teen-age children.
Registering for Wanda’s Ride
Wanda is a long-standing member of the Fort Collins Cycling Club (FCCC). A special ride to support her will occur in Fort Collins, on Saturday, September 28th. 100% of the $60 registration fee for this ride (56, 26, and 6 mile route options) will go to support Wanda as FCCC is paying for all ride organization costs, lunch for participants, and liability insurance. Register for the ride at http://www.fccycleclub.org.
Donations
Donations can also be made directly to support Wanda at https://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/wanda-s-ride/70162
Benefit Dinner, Concert and Silent Auction
A benefit dinner and concert will be held for Wanda on Wednesday, September 25, 2013 from 6:00-10:00 pm at Ryan’s Sports Bar & Grill, 925 E. Harmony Road, Ft. Collins.
The concert will feature the Blues DoGS. Ryan’s will donate a percentage of all food and drink sales. Silent auction items donated by local businesses and individuals will be available for bidding. 100% of proceeds go to Wanda.
I am donating the following picture to the silent auction. I call it Eternal Flame.
Since Wanda’s accident I have heard many stories about her positive attitude, cheerfulness, and perseverance through this tough time. I chose to donate this picture because it reminds me of Wanda’s spirit. The Eternal Flame is symbolic of unwavering hope and optimism, two things that Wanda has in abundance.
Eternal Flame, Antelope Canyon
14X22 Image, 20X28 Framed
Giclée print made with high-quality archival inks on fine art paper. Framed with Museum Glass® anti-reflection glass with Conservation Grade UV Protection.
Breathtaking and tranquil, Antelope canyon is located on the Navajo Nation Reservation. The Navajo believe the natural cathedral of Antelope Canyon is a haven for rebirth and renewing of spiritual energy.
I hope this donation and others benefit Wanda and help her through these challenging life transitions.
Details about Wanda’s accident and the fundraisers were provided by Amy Ehrenberger.
Focal Point 
I just picked up this print from the framer. It turned out really nice. I’m very pleased with it. I will enjoy having it hang on my wall for a few days before it goes to auction next week.