Sorry it's taken me a few days to reply. Before discussing this issue with my husband, I made a mental checklist of all the points I wanted to bring up (most of the points were discussed in this post). He did go out for a 20 mile group ride on Tuesday evening. His average is typically 18-20 mph, and he was able to ride somewhat close to this average. However, when he would break from the pace line he had a problem catching his breath, so he had to reduce his speed to get his breathing under control. After the ride, he assumed he wouldn't do the 4 day century ride, but I didn't find this out until I discussed my concerns with him.

I told him I was concerned about him not being able to bring properly or catch his breath, not be able to consume enough liquid/fuel/electrolytes both on & off the bike to perform, what would happen if he dehydrated again, what would happen if he fell/crashed again. Yes, I did get emotional & threw in that I'm worried that he wouldn't make it & that his 1 year old daughter is too young to live without a father & than I'm too young to be a widow. I was kind of impressed with myself, because I didn't cry at all. I stated my concerns, told him in the long run it's his decision. He told me about the bike ride, that his bike wouldn't be repaired in time for the ride, and also that he isn't healthy enough for the ride.

Yes, he wishes he could do the ride, but he's not going to endanger his health for a 4 day bike ride. Even if he has the jaw wired shut for 4-6 weeks, there still another month or 6 weeks left of ride (we live in the Chicagoland area), so he can hop back on the saddle after the wires are snipped.

Thanks for all your help & concern. I feel a great deal better & am so glad I posted my question here. Take care,

Julie