We received this email from a member after the unfortunate death of a member in Spring of 2004:

My name is (NN). I've been a member for years but haven't done many rides with the club. This is simply because of location and where I live. I'm sorry to hear about (NN's) passing. I don't know the initial cause either. His incident is my reason for replying to your email. I felt compelled to tell my story in hopes to raise awareness. I fortunately had symptoms and saw my cardiologist. He had told me I had good cholesterol and no blockage. I spoke to a cardiac care nurse. She told me to change cardiologists immediately and I did so. On my first visit I was asked if I had a calcium score done. I replied, "Whats that?" I had one done and came back higher than normal. Within weeks I had a catheterization done for an 80% blockage in my lower anterior descending artery (better known as "the widow maker"). Had I not had symptoms I wouldn't have known or be here today.

Since my procedure I've had family members and friends who had no symptoms. They went for a calcium score and many had stents put in for blockages. They thanked me so much for the awareness. I'm sharing my story to raise awareness and possibility save lives as mine was saved. For those who may not have symptoms and see a cardiologists, please get a calcium score done. A local clinic does it without a prescription for about 80.00 out of pocket. Unfortunately, my insurance didn't pay for this test. Thank you, for taking the time to read my story. If I make a difference in one person this was successful. Be safe and enjoy the ride.