Outdoor Mindset is an organization that unites and inspires individuals facing neurological challenges through a common passion for the outdoors. The organization is making this happen across the country, and as board vice-chair I am fortunate to be a part of seeing it grow and improve others' quality of life. 

I had brain surgery on December 23, 2011 to remove my right temporal lobe in efforts to rid me of uncontrollable seizures. Opting to have elective brain surgery was the most difficult decision I have ever faced. Thanks to Outdoor Mindset, I met an amazing woman who shared my predicament. She had the same surgical procedure twelve years prior. In all my frustration, fear, uncertainty and doubt this woman was my champion every step of the way, including being there in the hospital during my recovery. Since that time we have become close friends.

This woman's name is Diane Van Deren, and her story is nothing short of miraculous! Despite her brain surgery and complete loss of her short term memory, Diane has achieved incredible feats throughout her career as an elite endurance athlete. On May 10, 2012 she is attempting to run the Mountains To Sea trail in North Carolina, a 1000 mile trail spanning from the Smokey Mountains to the Outer Banks of the Atlantic Ocean. Diane plans to beat the record, and run the entire trail in just 24 days. That's an average of about 40 miles per day folks!!

In an effort to raise money for the organization that helped me find my way through brain surgery, I have committed to Diane that I will run, bike, or hike every day that she is out on the trail. As she stuck beside me along my journey, I will do the same for her. 

What you can do:

1. Make a donation to my "Tour de Brain" challenge. It can be a flat amount, an amount per day, or whatever you fancy.
2. If you're not into the online thing, mail a donation to Outdoor Mindset at 1232 Monarch Drive, Longmont, CO 80504.

All the money raised will go toward funding our Outdoor Meetup and Guide programs for our members. Thanks for all your support. Here's to LIVIN' BIG everyone!!!