Taylor Alameda

My heart hurts for every child that suffers from cancer and every family that endures the burden of the fight. We need to do better. Every penny counts.

Donate Now

I've Ridden 380.1 mi to fight kids' cancer

My Rankings

National: 227th
State: 17th in TX
My Team: 2nd

I've raised $3,931.36 to fight kids' cancer Donate Now

I'm Riding For

Lennon Marguerite Walther

Lennon Marguerite Walther was born on March 24, 2015 to Zack and Marci Walther. She has two big sisters, Ashton Grace and Dani Laurel. Only a few days shy of 6 weeks old, she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on May 4th. Only 10 infants per million live births annually in the U.S. are diagnosed with AML. Lennon was truly one in a million. Lennon finished one round of chemotherapy. Upon completion of the induction phase, they soon found that she responded very well to the chemo with an ANC of 0, within normal limits. Unfortunately, this wonderful news meant she would be more susceptible to other illnesses. With no white blood cells to fight from the chemo, Lennon's many viruses lead to fungal pneumonia. Lennon never left the hospital after her diagnosis. Lennon beat the odds until on June 1, 2015, her kidneys stopped working and Lennon gained her angel wings. She stole the hearts of so many in that month with her fighting, her beauty and grace, and her profound eyes.

My Story

18 Sep 2020

I am spearheading a team for my small company (Team Ducatus Partners) and our collective goal is $15,000 and 2,500 miles. My personal goal is to raise $2000 and ride 350 miles.

I am specifically riding for a little girl named Lennon Marguerite Walther. A few months ago, I was lucky enough to meet Lennon’s family and specifically her mother, Marci Walther. If you’ve ever met someone who could light up a room with her presence, you are familiar with the way Marci presents herself…there is something about a person whose smile and hug during a first introduction can make you feel safe. I plan to expand further on my reasoning behind riding for Lennon, but I am truly grateful to Marci for providing me with her blessing.

Over the next few weeks, I plan to post several informational graphics and hope to inspire you to join my team, support and donate to the fundraiser, and/or find a flame in your heart to advocate on behalf of these children and families.

My Challenge

8.3 mi ride - Morning Ride - Monday, November 23, 2020

Logged this ride 6 days ago
THANK YOU - The Final Ride

28 Sep 2020

I HAVE COMPLETED THE GREAT CYCLE CHALLENGE! Today I cycled 39.04 miles and have officially completed 371.8 miles, passing my 350 mile goal for the month of September. To date, I have raised $3,895.83 for the Children's Cancer Research Fund.

This has been a phenomenal past month for me. I've found a renewed faith in the pure kindness and good-heartedness of people. I'd found myself a bit disheartened and felt that people had lost the capacity to care for others. The sheer number of donations has blown my mind - not to mention the generous sums. Thank you all so very much for supporting me and supporting this cause which I care so deeply about.

This month I've also pushed myself physically much harder than I thought I could possibly endure - and have succeeded. I'm amazed and proud. However, I want to stress that this month has been difficult for me, but my sore muscles and tired frame cannot compare to children who are currently undergoing chemo and various trials and treatments for cancer. We need to do better. Children fighting cancer are worth more than the 4% of federal funding they currently receive.

Thank you for caring. Sending love.

Posted 62 days ago
39.0 mi ride - GCC DAY 28: Country Road, Take Me Home - Monday, September 28, 2020

Logged this ride 62 days ago
29.8 mi ride - GCC DAY 26: White Oak Team Ride & Dine - Saturday, September 26, 2020

Logged this ride 64 days ago
16.6 mi ride - GCC DAY 25: New Helmet & Broke 300 mi for September! - Friday, September 25, 2020

Logged this ride 65 days ago
7.2 mi ride - GCC DAY 23: Not Feeling Great - Kiddos Fighting Cancer Likely Feel Worse - Thursday, September 24, 2020

Logged this ride 66 days ago
Day 23: Heights Blvd Cruisin'

24 Sep 2020

Day 23 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! Cycled 16.45 miles up & down Heights Blvd, dodging trashcans. I should really stop riding on trash day! Slowly chipping away at my 350 mile goal - currently sitting at 279 miles. So close to 300 miles! Maybe tomorrow 😇If you would like to donate and support my ride, it would truly be appreciated. I am SO close to raising $4,000 which is AMAZING. Thank you all for your support and encouragement - I am so, so grateful.

Posted 67 days ago
16.5 mi ride - GCC DAY 23: Enjoying the Breeze - Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Logged this ride 67 days ago
DAY 22: Rain or Shine

23 Sep 2020

Day 22 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! For those who are unaware, Houston is currently experiencing Tropical Depression Beta - and therefore lots and lots of flooding. Check out the bayou that's usually pretty empty (plz see my other pics posted as proof). However, I still managed to cycle 13 miles today in the pouring rain (77°F, 100% humidity, 8mph wind). It was actually pretty fun once I got over the fact my shoes were filled with rainwater. Truly would've completed more, but Devon got a puncture. Bad news: we still aren't carrying extra supplies or a repair kit (yes Dad, I know, shame on us. Can't help those who can't help themselves, eh?) Good news: I found out that I can make it home by myself from Memorial! Don't worry, I came back for Dev with the car. Anyway, that makes for 262.7 miles finished of the 350 miles I'm challenging myself to complete. Rain or shine baby, it's all for a great cause!

Posted 68 days ago
13.1 mi ride - GCC DAY 22: Riding in the Rain - All Fun & Games Until Someone Gets a Puncture - Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Logged this ride 68 days ago
DAY 19&20: COMPLETE

21 Sep 2020

Day 19 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! Cycled 24.5 miles today while enjoying the sunshine and beautiful weather. Clear skies, 85°F with 12mph winds. Happy Saturday!

Day 20 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! 25 miles in the rain (76°F) with Team Ducatus Partners. Yes, if you were wondering, I am covered in muddy road water and sweat. For some reason a) no one else wore their GCC jersey and b) we didn't take a group photo. Great ride and even better BBQ!

Posted 69 days ago
24.8 mi ride - GCC DAY 20: BBQ at Bear Creek - Sunday, September 20, 2020

Logged this ride 70 days ago
24.5 mi ride - GCC DAY 19: Neighborhood Cruisin - Saturday, September 19, 2020

Logged this ride 71 days ago
DAY 16: Olivia's Day!

17 Sep 2020

Day 16 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! Today I rode 31.90 miles and got into my first cycling accident. It was raining. It was dark. I went over the handlebars and everything. And yes, if you're wondering, I DID crash into Devon. Also, for the record, a third party was present who caused the incident (but that’s neither here nor there). I’m okay, he’s okay, his bike is okay, and my bike needs a little tune up. Oh and it was 91°F and felt like 97°F (obviously with a dash of rain). In other news, today my entire team rode over 280 miles to celebrate and honor the 28 month battle our colleague’s daughter fought with cancer. It has been amazing to see efforts made by everyone - including his daughter! On top of the cycling, our parent company, Airswift, has committed to matching all donations from today (Wednesday) through to midnight Friday. So if you’re still on the fence about donating, please support children’s cancer research today. Every single penny you contribute will count as double! 💛 Thank you all for your support and contributions thus far. We're 16 days in, so we still have plenty left to go!

Posted 74 days ago
31.9 mi ride - GCC DAY 16: Olivia's Day - Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Logged this ride 74 days ago
GCC DAY 14: Lost and Found

15 Sep 2020

Day 14 of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! Logged 17 solo miles today and learned I'm not a fan of cycling alone after dark. Also, didn't learn this, but rather re-enforced my lack of directional awareness...I got lost. BUT while I was lost, I was offered beer. All is well that ends well, right? Weather today: 89°F, feels like 99°F with Houston humidity at 62%.

Posted 75 days ago
17.3 mi ride - GCC DAY 14: Learned I'm Afraid of (Cycling in) the Dark - Monday, September 14, 2020

Logged this ride 76 days ago
GCC Day 12: Group Ride - 30 miler

13 Sep 2020

Day twelve of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! Logged 29 miles (mostly) with Sam and Jon. 151 miles complete; 149 miles left to ride. I'm now past my halfway mark to 300 miles! Weather: Sunny and 75°F with Houston humidity at 98%!!!

Posted 77 days ago
GCC Day 11: Back in Action

13 Sep 2020

Took a few days off after my tube was punctured. It poured rain in Houston every afternoon I wanted to get back at it. Finally made it out for day 11! 16.8 miles riding solo - 178 left to ride. 89°F, feels like 98°F, Houston humidity 62%.

Posted 77 days ago
29.3 mi ride - GCC DAY 12: Hard Earned Brunch - Saturday, September 12, 2020

Logged this ride 78 days ago
11.0 mi ride - GCC DAY 11: Had fun getting lost - Friday, September 11, 2020

Logged this ride 79 days ago
5.8 mi ride - Morning Coffee w/ Sam - Friday, September 11, 2020

Logged this ride 79 days ago
$2,500 raised to fight kids' cancer!

I just hit $2,500 to fight kids' cancer! Thank you so much for your support.

Posted 81 days ago
Day 6: Popped Tire & 40 Miler!

6 Sep 2020

Day six of the Great Cycle Challenge complete!

Rode with Jack who conveniently popped my tire before we could reach 100 kilometers. I also lost some miles because I forgot to restart strava (oops). 40 miles will have to do! 75°F, feels like 77°F, Houston humidity at 87%. That makes for 105 miles down, 195 miles to go!

Posted 84 days ago
37.4 mi ride - (40.56mi) GCC DAY 6: Jack popped my tire, but at least he bought me lunch. Bummer. No 100km today. - Sunday, September 6, 2020

Logged this ride 84 days ago
Day 5: Team Ride!

5 Sep 2020

Day five of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! 78°F, feels like 79°F, Houston humidity at 83%. That makes for 67 miles down, 233 miles to go!

Posted 85 days ago
14.6 mi ride - GCC DAY 5 - Ducatus Partners Group Ride - Saturday, September 5, 2020

Logged this ride 85 days ago
Day 3: Complete

4 Sep 2020

Day three of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! 90°F, feels like 103°F, Houston humidity a mere 67%. That makes for 53 miles down, 247 miles to go!

Yes, I’ve upped my mileage goal by 100 miles during the month of September. Your support and encouragement is absolutely welcomed and appreciated!🤞

Posted 86 days ago
16.9 mi ride - GCC Day 3: Exploring New Routes - Thursday, September 3, 2020

Logged this ride 87 days ago
Day 2: Complete

3 Sep 2020

Day two of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! 13 miles today, so that's 36 miles down, 164 to go. 96°F, feels like 105°F, Houston humidity 46%.

Posted 87 days ago
12.6 mi ride - GCC Day 2: Dodging Trashcans - Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Logged this ride 88 days ago
Day 1: Complete

2 Sep 2020

Day one of the Great Cycle Challenge complete! 23 miles down, 177 to go. 91°F, feels like 103°F, Houston humidity 61%.

Posted 89 days ago
23.4 mi ride - Day 1 - Great Cycle Challenge âœ”ï¸ - Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Logged this ride 89 days ago
First Day of School Absentee

24 Aug 2020

As schools across the country celebrate the 'first day back', it is difficult to look past those who are unable to participate this year.

While some children are currently in hospital, fighting for their lives and going through treatment, there are others, like Lennon, who are no longer with us.

It is estimated that 38 children die from cancer every single week.

Teachers won't call their names on roll call, there is no empty desk waiting for them, and their absence will likely not be felt by those in the classroom.

However, their families feel it. As Marci (Lennon's mother) shared yesterday, "I should be walking little Lennon to her Kinder class tomorrow morning, but cancer robbed us of that also."

We need to ensure more children are able to participate in 'back to school day' each year.

In order to accomplish this, we need more research and better treatments. I am fundraising for the Children's Cancer Research Fund for exactly this reason.

Please continue to be aware, to raise awareness, and help if you can. Have a great week - and for those celebrating the first few weeks of school - take a second to reflect for those that are not in attendance. Thank you 💛

Posted 97 days ago
Together, we've raised over $1,000!

20 Aug 2020

Thank you all - for every donation, every word of encouragement, and every positive thought and wish for the families in need.

We are making a difference and I am so grateful for it!

Posted 101 days ago
Today, August 19th, is “Tribute Day” for the Great Cycle Challenge.

19 Aug 2020

If you are wondering why I am riding, a little girl named Lennon Marguerite Walther is the reason. However, in order for me to tell you about Lennon, first I need to tell you about my encounters with her mother, Marci Walther.

Please read more by visiting the link below:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/childhood-cancer-awareness-great-cycle-challenge-usa-taylor-alameda/

Who will you ride for in September?

Posted 102 days ago
$1,000 raised to fight kids' cancer!

I just hit $1,000 to fight kids' cancer! Thank you so much for your support.

Posted 103 days ago
THANK YOU - Together we've raised $700 already!

17 Aug 2020

Hi all,

First and foremost I want to say thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

Every donation, no matter the size, counts. Every word of support matters. I am so incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement I've received thus far... and it's not even September yet!

I am feeling overwhelmed with positivity and motivation. I cannot wait to ride in support of Lennon and every child and family enduring the burden of childhood cancer.

Have a wonderful week.

All the best,

Taylor Alameda

Posted 104 days ago
$500 raised to fight kids' cancer!

I just hit $500 to fight kids' cancer! Thank you so much for your support.

Posted 106 days ago
$250 raised to fight kids' cancer!

I just hit $250 to fight kids' cancer! Thank you so much for your support.

Posted 106 days ago
Help Fight Children's Cancer!

15 Aug 2020

Hello! I am asking for your support. During the month of September, I am participating in the Great Cycle Challenge to support and fundraise for the Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF), which is focused on developing lifesaving treatments and finding a cure for childhood cancer.

For a bit of background on the CCRF, almost 50 years ago Katie Hageboeck was 13 and nearing the end of her 16-month battle with leukemia. Before Katie died, she specifically asked that her savings for a new 10-speed bike be given to CCRF, a ‘little-known fund’ at the University of Minnesota. Today, CCRF is a national nonprofit. Since 1981, they have contributed over $186 million to research, education and awareness, and quality-of-life programs for childhood cancer families.

By participating in the Great Cycle Challenge, all fundraising efforts will go directly to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund.

A little-known fact is that childhood cancer research is consistently underfunded. Less than 4% of the federal budget for cancer research is dedicated to childhood cancer. Perhaps this is due to fact most people are unaware that cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in American children? It is estimated that 38 children die from cancer each week. They are worth more than 4%.

My heart hurts for every child that suffers from cancer and every family that endures the burden of the fight. Personally, I don’t understand how we speak about children being the future of society and yet we continue to fail them. We need to do better.

I am spearheading a team for my small company (Team Ducatus Partners) and our collective goal is $7,500 and 1,000 miles. My personal goal is to raise $2000 and ride 200 miles. Every penny counts.

I am specifically riding for a little girl named Lennon Marguerite Walther. A few months ago, I was lucky enough to meet Lennon’s family and specifically her mother, Marci Walther. If you’ve ever met someone who could light up a room with her presence, you are familiar with the way Marci presents herself…there is something about a person whose smile and hug during a first introduction can make you feel safe. I plan to expand further on my reasoning behind riding for Lennon, but I am truly grateful to Marci for providing me with her blessing.

Over the next few weeks, I plan to post several informational graphics and hope to inspire you to join my team, support and donate to the fundraiser, and/or find a flame in your heart to advocate on behalf of these children and families.

Your encouragement and support in achieving these goals is much appreciated!

Posted 106 days ago