In 2008 I was a juror in a case of child abuse against a 58 day old baby.  The injuries were overwhelming and I couldn't get the images out of my head and bought a bicycle to help change the thoughts created by the trial-I had no idea how much it would change my life!  When I upgraded my bike the great guys at Old Town Bicycle told me to ride the Courage Classic.  After resisting, thinking I could never ride 3 mountain passes, they threw in the cause:  child abuse prevention fundraiser.  I knew at that moment I would ride for Tehya, the baby in the trial (now almost 4 years old pictured above). 

Because of the Courage Classic I was randomly connected to the caseworker, and then the family who now cares for Tehya and her little sister.  I have become heartened by the fact that she is loved and cared for in the manner that she should have been from the beginning.  Tehya is doing well but her new family will have issues to manage on her behalf for many years.  The programs provided from funds raised by this event will help children like Tehya live loving, normal lives.

I rode the 2009 Courage Classic and was amazed at the organization of the ride and the people who support the ride and the cause.  I was successful in raising funds to earn a bicycle credit and donated a bicycle to the Brain Injury Association of WA in Tehya's name.  I will ride again this August and this year a survivor of domestic violence will be part of Team Tehya.  Your support in contribution, encouragement, and sharing this message is appreciated.

Each year the Mary Bridge Child Abuse Intervention Department provides care for more than 500 child abuse victims!  The fact that there is one helpless child abused is appalling, let alone greater than 500 children.

Your contribution will change lives and sustain a local program that helps children like Tehya.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated.  Please give your 100% tax deductible donation online at www.firstgiving.com/loribielinski (online donations have a small surcharge), or send checks to:  MBCH PO Box 5296, Tacoma, WA 98415-0296.  Be sure to include my name in the memo line.

Sincerely,  Lori Bielinski

Thanks for the following offline donors also:  Bill Stauffacher, Stu Halsan, Lonnie Johns-Brown, Ilona Perry, Melanie Stewart, Tami Warnke, Dr. Tim Day, Dedi Hitchins, Larry Duppler, Chris and Dave Norlund, Jen Norlund and Aaron, Ann Simons, Oklahoma and the Unified Chiropractic Association!