You Won't Believe This Man's Plans for an Incredible Journey

I've known Jay Blanchard for a number of years. He's my financial advisor and a class act in every way. But I have an elevated respect for him after his recent announcement that he plans a coast to coast bike trip to raise awareness and money for the American Widow Project. It's an organization that provides the kind of help military widows and their families need after the tragedy of losing their loved one.

Starting on June 2nd, Jay will participate in the Trans Am Bike Race, the world's longest unsupported bicycle race. He'll ride his bike 4,200 miles coast-to-coast, covering 10 states from Astoria, Oregon to Yorktown, Virginia. Jay estimates the trip will take him approximately 25 days and he plans to ride 100 to 250 miles a day depending on the conditions.

Since this is an unsupported ride, it means that no support vehicles can accompany him along the way. Jay will have to fend for himself against the weather, fatigue, hunger and any other obstacle that he may have to face.

Has he ever done anything like this before? He's ridden in the Ride for Roswell and other similar events, but those are one-day events. The furthest he's traveled in one day is 206 miles. I know that he regularly rides his bike to work from Darien Center to Williamsville.

Alexandra Allan

His goal is to raise $100,000 on what he's calling his Ride 4 Widows. Since announcing his plans he's proud to say he's more than doubled the amount raised each week.

You'll be able to follow along on his journey and track his daily progress at his Ride 4 Widows website. It's where you can also make a donation.

Good luck Jay. We'll be riding along with you in spirit.