Father to a T1D hero, Steve Moldt, joined our chapter Ride to Cure team last year. A new member of the Metro Roadsters (our chapter team) and new to cycling, Steve embraced the Ride and tells everyone he meets “Ride changed my life.”

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JDRF: What would you tell someone about the Ride program that doesn’t know anything about it?

Steve Moldt: I would say, to most people, it is probably a bit daunting to get on a bike and take on some major mileage for the Ride to Cure, especially if you aren’t a regular cyclist, and it is your first experience on a big tour event. The preparation can be daunting.

But the team for this event is so supportive, and there are so many opportunities to get knowledge and coaching so that come the day of the event you can feel confident that you are prepared. The attitude of the support staff is so positive. It’s contagious!

The feeling you get from participating in the event, supporting a great organization and T1D people you care about is amazing.

The value of the whole experience is way beyond what you might expect. I found a family, a big huge family where people no what is is like to have T1D or have a loved one, brother, sister or child with T1D. Virtually everyone there has life experience with the fears, the uncertainly, the anger and the triumph of accomplishing things.

It is not just a support group where feelings are shared, etc. It is a huge event where everyone there is doing something about T1D. Being proactive and being with and supporting some many others who are doing the same. You really get the knowledge that you are not in this alone. Also, anyone coming in for the first time does not realize the depth of commitment of the organization, from the support staff to the coaches to the CEO riding every ride. That really impressed me.

JDRF: What was it like to cross the finish line?

Steve: For me, crossing the finish line was an amazing moment that brought me to tears. I said throughout my training that my daughter has to deal with this disease 24/7/365. She has no choice and the alternative is unthinkable. So when I was hurting or having a crappy training ride, I reminded myself of what she has to go through.

Still, riding 100 miles seemed to be a pretty large goal. So finally coming across the finish line after seven hours of riding was like nothing I have experienced before. I will remember the moment for the rest of my life.

JDRF: What was your favorite part?

Steve: My favorite part of the ride was the last 28 miles with Jerry [fellow Roadster]. Somehow we had so much energy and we were really killing it on the road — At least I felt that way!

I truly loved the feeling of family that pervaded the whole event, meeting so many people, and finding new friends which I will have for a long time to come.

JDRF: Do you have a “mission moment” that stands out to you?

Steve: I have such gratitude for is the support I received from so many in my fundraising. I was so humbled by the love of friends and family and colleagues. Being able to be near the top of our team’s fundraising effort in my first year gave me a great sense of accomplishment.

More importantly, since I can’t make do anything about the disease itself, doing this ride and fundraising gave me a sense that I was actually doing something to make a better future for my daughter and so many others.

Lastly, Saratoga Spring is a great ride in and of itself!

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To learn more about Ride to Cure, visit us online or contact Development Manager Sandy Hilsenrath.