Fatcyclist [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

jesvetmed

05-02-2008, 11:18 AM

This has brought horrible memories to my mind. This is what happened with my friend who passed away in Dec -- the brain tumors were the worst last insult.

I have never read that blog before and don't know what started this all (is it breast cancer?), but I am horrified to hear of yet another woman facing this challenge. My prayers are with them.

rij73

05-02-2008, 01:20 PM

It started out as breast cancer, but one year ago they found out it had metastasized... bones, spine, lungs, lymph nodes, and now brain. Poor woman.

Kalidurga

05-02-2008, 01:54 PM

Susan really does sound like an amazing woman. Not only has she had to deal with the physical trauma of her cancer, but she's made a point of supporting Elden's need to ride throughout this ordeal. That makes her wonderfully heroic. She deserves to have everyone rooting for her.

rij73

05-02-2008, 03:07 PM

That makes her wonderfully heroic.

Well said... and she even took a family trip to Disneyland a couple of months ago. She's being really tough for those kids.

Kalidurga

05-03-2008, 06:16 AM

Update: http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/05/02/has-it-been-only-one-day/

The news is worse, so be prepared to cry if you click on that link. That poor family.

Tri Girl

05-03-2008, 06:23 AM

So, so sad. :(

rij73

05-03-2008, 07:02 AM

Ugh.... :(

SouthernBelle

05-03-2008, 07:24 AM

I lost a dear friend a few years ago to something similar, so I wasn't completely surprised to read Elden's post.

I'm afraid there are even harder times ahead.

mupedalpusher

05-03-2008, 02:19 PM

I hadn't read his blog for a while, that is so sad. My friend found out last week she has breast cancer (age 40), I'm scared to death for her.

bean fidhleir

05-03-2008, 03:37 PM

Like most people, I really got in touch around age 50 with the fact that one day I will be no more, and now in my late 60s that day is much closer. Unlike most people I'm not even pseudoreligious, so I have no expectation that there'll be any Me left after my body dies. I think it's saddening when someone like Susan dies at a younger age than most, and especially when everyone has to suffer in anticipation, but compared to Time itself, none of our lives last longer than the flicker of a candle flame. I won't say that's comforting, exactly, but it does feel as tho it at least puts our mortality into perspective. For me, anyway.

cyclinnewbie

05-03-2008, 05:58 PM

I have a bumper sticker that reads "cancer s*cks". It doesn't even begin to describe the devastation. My heart hurts for this family...

Trigress

05-04-2008, 02:59 AM

This is heartbreaking!

latelatebloomer

05-04-2008, 07:46 AM

Is there some clever way we could do a united message of care and support from our whole forum to Elden and Susan?

SouthernBelle

05-04-2008, 09:37 AM

Is there some clever way we could do a united message of care and support from our whole forum to Elden and Susan?

I think both Elden and Susan read the comments and are reading them now finding them very encouraging.

ATL Laura

05-05-2008, 09:50 AM

I just saw this post by Big Boned on Fatty's latest entry, I'm in for 2:01.

"Friends of Fatty: It came to me this morning as I was riding in to work…I’ve seen so many of you saying that you are going to pray for Fatty and his family…I want to propose an idea I’m stealing from the International Christian Cycling Club. In the club we have a set time everyday to pray. As we have members all around the world, we pray and our prayers are heard at different times due to the different time zones.
Fatty also has friends around the world. I’m going to suggest that those of you who are open to praying, try to pray for Fatty’s family at 2:01pm daily in your timezone. 201 pounds being the weight that designates the Clydesdale class that so many of us belong to. Set an alarm on your watch to help you remember, it can take only a minute, but it can be so powerful."

Lifesgreat

05-05-2008, 08:52 PM

Looks like Lance appeared in Fatty's email box. Go check it out.

www.fatcyclist.com

Go Susan!

maillotpois

05-05-2008, 09:01 PM

Wow.

Jones

05-06-2008, 01:50 AM

That is so cool.

Tuckervill

05-06-2008, 05:46 AM

That is all just too profound for words, so I just add my tears to his.

Karen

Geonz

05-06-2008, 07:31 AM

When I saw the post I thought, "well how would you know it was Lance?" D'oh.... it's awesome.

Lifesgreat

05-06-2008, 07:55 AM

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140230664899

I am not the seller.

jobob

05-20-2008, 07:37 AM

While I generally don't feel right about touting non-TE products on this forum, I think Susan O won't mind this ...

There's a new run of Fat Cyclist jerseys available via Twin Six, and they're selling out fast.

http://www.twinsix.com/data/products/womensjerseys/T608WJ05_lg.jpg

Men's are already gone, and women's are only available in Med & Large.

Proceeds benefit Fatty's wife Susan.

http://www.twinsix.com/gear/gear_t608wj05.htm

Trek420

05-20-2008, 07:45 AM

While I generally don't feel right about touting non-TE products on this forum, I think Susan O won't mind this ...

Susan, can we carry these here? :o

Trek420

05-20-2008, 07:59 AM

When I saw the post I thought, "well how would you know it was Lance?" D'oh.... it's awesome.

Still looking, could not find his letter. :(

OakLeaf

05-20-2008, 08:09 AM

http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/05/05/thanks-lance/

gnat23

05-20-2008, 09:27 AM

Men's are already gone, and women's are only available in Med & Large.

Proceeds benefit Fatty's wife Susan.

http://www.twinsix.com/gear/gear_t608wj05.htm

Sheesh, down to women's size large only now. I hope there's another run produced!

-- gnat!

jobob

05-20-2008, 11:21 AM

d'oh, sorry about that. I spread the word as soon as I knew

... once I ordered my own in size Med ;)

F8th637

05-20-2008, 12:39 PM

Got one for me and the hubby!

cyclinnewbie

05-20-2008, 08:41 PM

Darnit I missed it! Stupid job keeps me from all the fun stuff!:p

I hope I can buy one at some point....

teigyr

05-20-2008, 09:26 PM

There are still t-shirts. I got them for DH and I. I have an older pink Fat Cyclist jersey so that'll have to do for now.

Oh man...this is just so sad. I am running the Komen Race for the Cure in June. I will wear my Fat Cyclist shirt for the event despite the fact we will have a team shirt.

It is so scary and I wish for the best for both of them. Sometimes I marvel at the amount of strength that otherwise "normal" people have. I think I would break down.

F8th637

05-27-2008, 06:22 PM

Got ours in the mail today! I LOVE the fit! Check me out! The big diamond on the front is the tag still on it. ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/f8th637/IMG_1892-1.jpg

Bad JuJu

05-27-2008, 06:40 PM

http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/05/05/thanks-lance/
Oh that so rocks.
Sorry I missed out on the jerseys--apparently they sold out at lightning speed.

Trekhawk

05-27-2008, 07:52 PM

Got ours in the mail today! I LOVE the fit! Check me out! The big diamond on the front is the tag still on it. ;)

I'm with JuJu very sad that I missed out on that jersey.
You look fabulous in it.:)

jobob

05-27-2008, 09:32 PM

Mine arrived today too!

No pics tho ...but it looks just like F8th637's :)

SouthernBelle

05-28-2008, 05:57 AM

I didn't get a this year's, but still wear last year's.

teigyr

07-18-2008, 02:14 AM

They are accepting pre-orders for the next jersey. I like it :D The pre-orders go on until the 20th (a couple more days) and the jerseys ship in November. The good thing is if you order now, you don't have to worry about them selling out.

I got one for DH and one for myself.

smurfalicious

07-18-2008, 11:03 PM

Ugh, do you have to preorder? The new one is soooo freegin cute but I can't buy it and a new saddle. Oh the horsey on it, and the colors. *sniffle* It matches my bike! More black than pink, swoon. Preorder deadline is fast approaching, damnit. If my horse didn't need his feet done, I would so have one, but November is so far and it will be long sleeve weather here by then... *pout*

Kalidurga

07-19-2008, 03:14 AM

Ugh, do you have to preorder?

Fatty and TwinSix are doing a preorder this time because the last shirt sold out within a few days and people were upset that they couldn't get one. This way, they can guarantee that folks who really want a shirt, get one. There will only be a limited quantity made beyond the preorder number.

I'm in the same boat as you. I really want one not just 'cause it's a cool shirt, but also to help Fatty & Susan. But I just bought new cycling shoes so it's hard to come up with another $70 right now, even if it is for a good cause :o

Melalvai

07-19-2008, 05:52 AM

I just read Fat Cyclist archives straight through. It was weird reading the part where they were so excited because Susan wouldn't have to have chemo right away, knowing what happened next...I wish I could get a jersey, but just can't swing that expense.

SouthernBelle

07-19-2008, 06:41 AM

There will be a limited number available in November. Additionally there are going to have some kind of accessories, though he won't say what.

Everybody is clamoring for LS jerseys, so I'm hoping they are going to come up with arm warmers.

emily_in_nc

07-19-2008, 01:40 PM

The Fat Cyclist jerseys are great looking, but I just can't see wearing a primarily black jacket on the road (for mtb, ok) for visibility reasons. Wish he could come up with something a little brighter, but I know he wants to have the pink accents for bc support. Oh well....

SouthernBelle

07-19-2008, 07:08 PM

I hadn't really thought about that, Emily. I went back and looked and you're right. This year's jersey has a lot more black. Mine, jersey before last, has more pink.

Becky

07-20-2008, 12:07 PM

I agree with you both, Emily and Susan. The cost doesn't scare me, but I'm getting really particular about what color jerseys I buy due to visibility concerns. I was just reading somewhere (RoadBikeRider.com?) that red and orange aren't even good choices due to the number of men who see those colors as black and gray because of red/green colorblindness. :confused: :(

Maybe I should just buy a FC t-shirt instead....

atombessy

07-20-2008, 01:50 PM

thank for refreshing this post ladies! I got myself a jersey and a tshirt... (I agree with the road concerns, she's going to have to be a mountain jersey....)

jobob

10-20-2008, 10:41 PM

Things might be taking a bad turn for Susan.

http://www.fatcyclist.com/

cr@p.

badgercat

10-21-2008, 12:22 AM

Things might be taking a bad turn for Susan.

http://www.fatcyclist.com/

cr@p.

How scary. :(

Tuckervill

10-21-2008, 07:38 AM

I have so much admiration for people who can put very personal details out like that for everyone to read. Think of all the people in similar situations who can be edified by his candor.

Karen

arielmoon

10-21-2008, 08:08 AM

:( :( :( :(

firenze11

10-21-2008, 08:19 AM

I have so much admiration for people who can put very personal details out like that for everyone to read. Think of all the people in similar situations who can be edified by his candor.

That was really beautifully put Karen.

It feels kind of strange for me to have such an emotional reaction to the Nelsons. I remember reading about the tumors in Susan's brain and the description of them as being like dandelion seeds, I felt really numb the rest of the day thinking about that family. Maybe it's because of the people close to me who have been battling cancer for years and years or maybe it's because Elden has been so generous and candid to let readers into their lives. Anyway, I'm continuing to hope and pray for them, and am always in awe of their strength and courage.

Pedal Wench

10-21-2008, 08:25 AM

Things might be taking a bad turn for Susan.

http://www.fatcyclist.com/

cr@p.

Shoot. I just got my jersey over the weekend. Win Susan.

Pedal Wench

10-21-2008, 11:13 AM

Oh --- who knows the significance of the "201" on the sleeve? I didn't notice it when I pre-ordered, and now that the jersey is here, I'm curious. Anyone know?

Kalidurga

10-21-2008, 11:43 AM

I have so much admiration for people who can put very personal details out like that for everyone to read. Think of all the people in similar situations who can be edified by his candor.

I can totally understand it. The writing becomes a form of therapy and, at this point, it's probably a great release for Elden to get everything out. Plus, I noticed his sister's comment, so the blog also serves as a way to communicate with family so that he doesn't have to re-tell the situation over and over. What's amazing to me is seeing all the wonderful responses to his posts about Susan's condition.

Oh --- who knows the significance of the "201" on the sleeve? I didn't notice it when I pre-ordered, and now that the jersey is here, I'm curious. Anyone know?

If I remember correctly, 201 is the weight minimum to qualify for the Clydesdale class. Since Elden started out as a "fat" cyclist, that's the significance of the Clydesdale horse in his logo.

Steph_in_TX

10-21-2008, 11:54 AM

From Fatty's site...

201: The "201" on the left sleeve goes with the Fat Cyclist Clydesdale logo. Since 200 pounds is the traditional threshold for being in the Clydesdale category, this jersey goes to 201.

I wore mine for the first time yesterday. It is an extremely comfortable jersey and I love that the bottom doesn't have elastic. I'm planning on wearing it Sunday for the Austin LiveStrong Challenge ride...along with my pink "cancer sucks" socks.

Pedal Wench

10-21-2008, 12:08 PM

Kalidurga

10-28-2008, 04:33 AM

Just to keep Fat Cyclist fans updated: According to Elden's Facebook status, he met with a hospice nurse last night. That doesn't sound good, obviously, so I'm sure he and the family can use all of our prayers, virtual hugs, best wishes and good thoughts.

SouthernBelle

10-28-2008, 05:47 AM

Thnx, Kali. I have not read today but will do so in short order.

Blueberry

10-28-2008, 06:29 AM

I cannot even fathom what he's going through. Much less to be able to write about it, and share it with the world. Their kids are lucky to have someone with such grace and dignity to take care of them.

CA

Kalidurga

10-28-2008, 06:37 AM

Thnx, Kali. I have not read today but will do so in short order.

Have a box of kleenex handy when you do.

SouthernBelle

10-28-2008, 08:07 AM

Susan's journey sounds so much like a late friend of mine's. It's painful on two levels.

jesvetmed

10-28-2008, 11:23 AM

Susan's journey sounds so much like a late friend of mine's. It's painful on two levels.

Ditto. I can't bring myself to keep reading it. Way too painful and close to home. I can only hope the best for her family. They've gone through one helluva journey together already.

crazycanuck

10-28-2008, 03:43 PM

:(

Ditto what CA in NC said.

MillieNZ

10-28-2008, 04:15 PM

:( So sad.......... hada teary eye moment at work today.........

I'm always amazed by the how well he writes. makes me appreciate that my own situation was never that bad

Di bear

10-28-2008, 04:16 PM

Elden's post, today, made me practically sob. I found myself going through Kleenex like crazy. Then, I had to go unstuff my nose. Very sad. There are lots of very sad people following that blog.

wildhawk

10-28-2008, 04:22 PM

Prayers and hugs for him and his precious family. I imagine writing about his experiences is his way of coping with it. Having lost my mom and dad and a close friend to cancer, I can understand some of what he is going through. The MS150 ride I am training for is for my dear friend I lost several months ago. She had MS and also had an inoperable brain tumor. I will be riding in memory of her, and I will also have this family in my thoughts and prayers. Thanks for keeping us updated on Susan.

jobob

10-29-2008, 09:14 PM

A beautiful entry today.

http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/10/29/a-chance-to-talk/

crazycanuck

10-29-2008, 09:22 PM

When I read today's blog, it was some relief (is that the right adjective in this case??) but also my heart sank. I'm glad he was able to say what he had to.

I wear my FC jersey with pride :)

lph

10-30-2008, 02:03 AM

Fatcyclists blog has been inspiring and moving and often very funny, but it's just heart-breaking now. Especially because we all know it's been coming. I'm not sure I want to keep reading it now :( but I don't think I can keep away either. I notice even BSNYC indirectly managed to point people to FC's blog today.

crazycanuck

10-30-2008, 04:42 AM

I would like to post a message of support on the FC site. The only thing stopping me is i don't want to look like an idiot & say the wrong thing.

SouthernBelle

10-30-2008, 06:08 AM

Just say you're keeping him in your thoughts. It doesn't have to be original.

Blueberry

10-30-2008, 06:17 AM

More bad news this AM:(:(:(

Aggie_Ama

10-30-2008, 06:22 AM

Could someone have told me to not have put on my eye makeup before reading? Beautiful. Poignant. Reminds me of the Mitch Albom book "For One More Day". Only he didn't take his day and savor it like Fatty has until after his loved one passed.

ETA- Wrote before todays posting.

Kalidurga

10-30-2008, 06:28 AM

Oh. my. gosh. That's about the most horrendous thing I could imagine dealing with.

Lifesgreat

10-30-2008, 02:35 PM

Like it says on Fatty's blog: Cancer is E V I L.

:(

gingerale

10-30-2008, 07:50 PM

My heart and prayers go out to this entire family. I cannot imagine dealing with anything like this.

Trek420

10-30-2008, 09:10 PM

Cancer sucks :( I hate cancer.

Speaking only for myself should someone post that the TE Discussion group has the family in our thoughts and prayers?

bmccasland

10-31-2008, 06:10 AM

Not to sound crass, but there's a point where death is merciful. I've been there with family when you feel relief that it's finally over, but sad that your loved one has died. It's very awkward.

At least FC has the hospice folks to help him care for Susan, and to support him. Meanwhile those of us on TE can seen all the good juju we can his way.

lph

10-31-2008, 06:29 AM

Not to sound crass, but there's a point where death is merciful. I've been there with family when you feel relief that it's finally over, but sad that your loved one has died. It's very awkward.

Oh, I can understand this feeling, very much. In a sense one's been saying goodbye and dealing with the loss for a long time before it actually happens.

SouthernBelle

10-31-2008, 07:18 AM

smilingcat

10-31-2008, 07:20 AM

Oh this is really awful and so sad... This brought up a song in my head by Diamond Rio "One More Day" It is so fitting.

Now I have to go and wash my face.

Aggie_Ama

10-31-2008, 08:33 AM

I don't think it's crass at all. Been there.

+1

If you have been there you won't think Beth's comment is crass, unfortunately.

Kalidurga

10-31-2008, 10:02 AM

Elden posted a bit of Halloween levity (http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/10/31/happy-halloween/) this morning. I'm glad that they can still hold onto some normalcy and fun.

firenze11

11-12-2008, 05:42 PM

Anyone see Fatty's blog today? He's trying to make the biggest team and raise the most money ever for the Livestrong Challenge. He's aiming for 500 people and at least $1000 each (but double that would make the team hit the million mark and that would be amazing). I think it sounds incredible. I'd really really really really love to do it, but I'd have to do the run because I can't train here and I'm not sure how I'd get down the Philly. Hmm. Maybe I should start saving pennies.