Group Ride

[Becky]

I'm not diabetic, thankfully, but as a fellow rider, I would really want to know if someone I was riding with has some sort of health issue. What if you had fallen or had an episode while on the road? It would really help those riding with you to respond if they know what the issue is.

I don't do many group rides but, when I do, I generally don't tell anyone about my D. I wear a Medic Alert (always!) and sometimes people will ask, but I don't go out of my way to tell. My friends and riding buds and coworkers all know- perfect strangers do not.

I've been unfairly judged by people because of D, and assumed to be a lesser rider or employee because they have this false notion that I'm fragile or need special care. I don't want someone to be afraid to follow my wheel because they think I'm going to suddenly "have an episode".

IMO, telling the group leader is appropriate. Telling the whole group is not.

(Sorry for the threadjack.)

[MyRubyE]

Thanks to everyone again. I think this was a good topic to discuss on this forum and how it relates to mountain and road biking; so others with health issues know that we shouldn't be afraid and let it stop us. It just takes a little bit more planning and consideration and that there are plenty of options out there. I actually went back and hiked the trails this morning and can't wait to go back on my MTB. I will bring a friend

Tulip, yes I did inform the group leader and he was very supportive and an EMT. He rode back with me to make sure I stayed safe while the other leader stayed with the others. But, for reasons which Becky mentioned, I would not tell the whole goup.

Becky, thanks for the book and I will be in touch with you. I will see if I can try to find the book.

Thanks again to all.

[tulip]

I did not advocate announcing it the entire group. Telling the ride leader was the right thing to do. Sounds like a very good ride leader.