Stephanie Tommasello

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

WHY I RIDE

Growing up riding dirt bikes and quads, when the opportunity arose to snag a vintage 1972 CB 500F barn find, I couldn’t say no.  I didn’t have my “M” endorsement at the time, but that purchase was the push I needed to make it official.  Thereafter, I was hooked.

Since day 1, motorcycling unlocked something deep in my spirit.  On the surface, motorcycling is a thrill that adds an air of adventure to the mundane and introduces me to amazing and interesting people that I may not otherwise find common ground with.  More deeply, motorcycling has taught me resilience, fortitude, preparedness, patience, and so much more.  Undoubtedly, there have been many times when I was brought to a place where I needed not only to focus and overcome the immediate challenge, but to remember to prepare myself for anything ahead.  Motorcycling has taught me that my life experiences, good and bad, are the consequence of my own planning, resourcefulness, and skill.  Reflecting on this, I realize that the art of motorcycling has been my quiet mentor, teaching me how to connect positively with the world, and forge profound strength within myself.  

When I first heard about the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR) almost a decade ago, it seemed to be a fun way to share a day with friends.  As I learned more about the DGR, I simply knew that I had to be a part of it.  The ride combines my appreciation of motorcycling with a greater purpose: raising funds and awareness for men's health issues such as prostate cancer and behavioral health.  

As someone who has personally witnessed the struggles of friends and loved ones dealing with these challenges, I know that it is not only those afflicted who suffer; the impact of these issues extends out to affect the very fiber of our social communities.  Understanding this, the DGR is more than just a fundraiser for me; it's a unique event that celebrates bringing people together for a common goal that directly creates positive change.  Each year, as riders join in strong commitment to show support for this cause, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of camaraderie and deep pride in knowing that what we do has lasting and lifesaving impacts. 

In the end, it isn't just about the ride; it's about the journey.  For me, that means being part of something bigger than myself.  With all funds raised being used towards life-saving research and contributions to Movember programs that support men's health, the DGR gives me the opportunity to make a lifechanging difference while doing what I love.