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my second time calling this area home and I’m so happy to say this time we get to stay! I met my husband while he was active in the United States Navy so we spent years moving back and forth across the country. When he retired, our goal was to make our final home here and we made that happen in 2020. I’m currently starting a new career for myself in veterinary science. I’ve always been a huge animal lover and am excited to keep learning.

How/when did you first hear about LOWVELO?

I learned about LOWVELO through my previous volunteer community here in the Lowcountry. Some mutual contacts reached out for some finish line help at Isle of Palms in 2021. I wasn’t sure exactly what I was getting into, but I was amazed at the excitement displayed by everyone involved. It was insanely impressive to see everything come together that morning – huge tents, banners, food and music. You could tell it was going to be a wonderful celebration of all the riders’ accomplishments. I felt lucky to be part of it, even in my small way. 

How many years total have you volunteered for LOWVELO?

I’ve been a volunteer for LOWVELO for the past 3 years. I started in 2021 and have continued every year since.

Why did you decide to get involved with this event?

I like getting involved with different community events. I learned more about the reasons behind this event during my first year. I was super impressed with how local and specific the fundraising goals were for the participants and how many had personal stories of how MUSC Hollings Cancer Center has impacted their lives.

What role(s) have you had as a LOWVELO volunteer?

My main role has been on the supporting side. I’ve worked with the race packet pick-up events at Firefly Distillery helping racers receive their information, updating them on any changes or morning of requirements, and helping break down afterwards. On the day of the event, my joy is at the finish line. I love greeting the racers as they arrive, helping them find friends and family, get a little bite to eat, and have a drink or two.

What has been your experience as a volunteer for this event?

The experience is wonderful because of the tremendous team behind the scenes. While there are always things that will cause complications for large events, you can see and feel the planning, care and thoughtfulness that is given in advance and during the actual event.

What’s the best part of the event, in your opinion?

My favorite part of the event is the sense of community I feel while I’m actively involved. The riders all have stories, the fans like to share histories and the vendors are top notch.

If someone was unsure about signing up as a volunteer, what would you tell them?

These events are a great way to start volunteering in the area. There are lots of different areas to start and you can absolutely choose something that works for your schedule and your skill set. It’s also a great way to see the impact of all that fundraising.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience with LOWVELO?

I’m just lucky to be a small cog in this whole thing. I love that you are helping let more people know about LOWVELO and spreading the news about their super fun events.

If you’re not quite ready to ride, but want to be involved in LOWVELO, volunteering is the perfect way to join in on the fun! Sign up to volunteer and invite your friends to register too. Mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 2, and sign up for a volunteer role now to help make this a successful event and accomplish our mission of eradicating cancer. Remember, every rider-raised dollar goes directly to cancer research at the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, so you can feel good about lending LOWVELO a hand!