Dear friends of Strangefolk,

I'm Jon's cousin, Andy Woodcock. Some people know me as "Woody." Like
all of you I was shocked when I learned of Jon's cancer. We talk and
email often, and I am very happy with how things are progressing so far.

In addition to my job as a meteorologist I have two main passions -
music and athletics. I too play guitar (although nowhere near at Jon's
level) and write songs. Jon played on a CD of mine a few years ago. I
am also an avid bike rider, having ridden in many locations in North
America and Europe. In the mid-late 1990s I did several long distance
charity bike rides for Aids and Multiple Sclerosis. I retired from
fundraising until now.

Because of Jon I have signed on to do Lance Armstrong's Ride For The
Roses this October in Austin, TX. I plan to do the 100 mile ride on
October 23rd. Many of you have heard of Lance's story - nearly dying
after having cancer in multiple organs, including his brain, defeating
it, and then going on to win the Tour du France, probably the most
demanding sporting event in the world, a record six times. The Lance
Armstrong Foundation supports people affected by cancer through
advocacy, education, public health and research.

For my upcoming Ride For The Roses you can pledge online using your
credit card if you desire. My suggested pledge is $35. To do so...

go to my personal page on www.laf.org

or if that link doesn't take you directly to my page you can go to www.laf.org

choose "peloton project" at the top of the page

go to "sponsor a member." Type in my last name (Woodcock)

and follow the steps.

On my LAF page there is an explanation of the ride, photos of Jon,
Lance, and me (not together, but I wish), and why I'm doing it.

Or you can write a check. Please make it out to "Lance Armstrong
Foundation." I shall collect these and send them to LAF as often as
needed.

Send it to:
Andy Woodcock
Ride For The Roses
Box 330
Ashburn, VA 20146

You can email me at lanceandwoody@hotmail.com

I am asking that you make your contribution, either way, by September
1. Sooner is better... I'm hoping that with strength in numbers a lot
of $35 donations will raise a bunch of money.

Thanks so much. PLEASE cut, paste, and forward this letter to as many
friends/relatives/coworkers/members of your church/synagogue/running
club/drum circle as you can.

Regards,
Woody