About Me:

**Unveiling the Journey: From Leukemia Survivor to Cycling Enthusiast**

Hello All! 

I'd like to share a bit of my story, one that weaves through challenges, triumphs, an unwavering passion for cycling and giving back what's been given to me. My journey began in a way I could have never predicted, but looking back, I wouldn't have it any other way. 

My introduction to cycling came through a poignant connection with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation. Witnessing my mother's extraordinary feat, at age 50 – completing a century ride in Tucson... The Tour de Tucson – in honor of my battle with childhood Leukemia (Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia), was a turning point in my life. The sight of My parents, my 2 older sisters, thousands of cyclists, ranging from amateurs to pros, many gathering to honor those affected by Leukemia & Lymphoma, was a transformative experience that etched itself deep within my heart. We followed my parents the entire day as they rode. 

At the time, cycling was something I had merely observed from a distance. But that event sparked a fire within me. Seeing my mother and stepfather, individuals who were not "cyclists", achieve such an incredible feat, left an indelible mark on me. A seed was planted, and it germinated over time. The desire to ride grew strong as I relocated from New York to Florida, where the need for transportation propelled me to discover the world of cycling in a more personal way.

My mother sent me the very bike she had ridden in the Tour de Tucson – a Hybrid Trek bike (a flat bar bike). This trusty companion became my mode of transport, carrying me to and from work for years. Without even realizing it, I was riding 200/250 miles a week just for work. Supported by the experts at David's World Cycle in College Park, I found myself not only rolling smoothly but also learning about the intricate world of cycling. 

As the miles accumulated by going longer outside of commuting – 250 to 300 per week – a profound realization emerged. I was no longer just a casual rider; I had become a cyclist at heart. Finding myself riding even longer when I could. This realization led me to a pivotal moment when I decided to participate in a cause close to my heart. It was my time to put my passion towards something near and dear to Me. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation beckoned, and I embarked on a journey to complete 100 miles around Lake Tahoe. The experience was amazing, cementing my commitment to the cycling world. It made me realize I loved helping those around me to get better and achieve their goals, while achieving mine. 

During my training, my coach, Mark Reina, made a statement that echoed in my mind: "If you can do that on a hybrid, I can only imagine what you could do on a road bike." That comment was the catalyst for change, propelling me to embrace the world of road cycling. A new chapter began with the acquisition of my first official road bike – a Trek Pilot. This decision was more than a choice of bike; it symbolized resilience, determination, and the triumph over a severe back injury, that threatened to derail my cycling aspirations. 

However, the journey didn't stop there. A surgeon's words echoed in my mind, offering two paths – an operation that would implant a mechanism around my spine or the path of hard work and strength-building. He was an athlete himself and said; " I can put this inside you and you'll live with pain/discomfort, or you can get off your ass and put in some hard work to try and repair your back...". I chose the latter, and as my back grew stronger with time, so did my resolve. The Trek Pilot was more than a bike; it was a testament to my determination and the power of the human spirit.

After almost 10 years as a landscape manager, my life took yet another turn when the business closed. Faced with big change, I joined the team at Bike Works in Orlando. My passion for cycling and my dedication to helping others thrive on their cycling journeys quickly propelled me to become a top salesperson. This opportunity also led me to specialized training in the art of Specialized BG Fit, a testament to my commitment to enhancing the cycling experience for others. It just felt right. 

The stars aligned, and less than a year later, my journey came full circle when I reunited with a familiar face – David, from David's World Cycle. Our paths converged, and I became a part of His David's World Cycle team, embarking on a career that spanned over a decade and encompassed roles ranging from bike fitting, managing multiple locations, top in sales, leading group rides, helping with our Vision Quest training facility, becoming a Vision Quest athlete with my longest tenure being at our David's World Cycle Clearwater location. Where I would end my career when Trek purchased all 21 locations of David's World Cycle.

Today, armed with 15 years of experience in the bike industry and more than 20 years as a cyclist, I find myself driven by a singular mission – to provide cyclists, regardless of their level, with the same top-notch service, guidance, and support that has been instrumental in my own journey. From leading the longest-running weekly shop ride in DWC history to being a certified bike fitter, every day offers me the privilege of connecting with cyclists and helping them navigate their own paths, both on and off the saddle.

So, this is me – a survivor, a cyclist, and a dedicated advocate for the cycling community. I invite you to join me on this journey, where together, we pedal through challenges, celebrate victories, and find the rhythm that propels us toward a brighter, more fulfilling life on two wheels. Let's embrace the open road and all it has to offer, one pedal stroke at a time.

James Gaetano