Bike MS Champion - Kim Boyer

Kim Boyer started riding after receiving her diagnosis of MS in 2012. She now rides with her own team and organizes training rides around Columbia, Missouri to help others prepare for Bike MS. With courage and the help of family and friends, Kim has risen to the challenge. 

Q: When were you diagnosed? What did the diagnosis mean to you?

Kim: December 2012. Even after all the tests, initially I only had one lesion on my spine so doctors were not in agreement. After six months, I had about 7 more which was a surprise so I am still processing what it means. 

Q: How has MS affected you and your family?

Kim: I think it has brought up more conversations about our health. My family is close, but sometimes we are not open about what is going on with our health.

Q: What do you think is the most difficult part about living with MS?

Kim: Right now for me it is the depression. It is something I have dealt with in the past, but with the medicine and the unknown progression of the disease, it has been more difficult.

Q: Have you discovered any unexpected silverlinings?

Kim: Bike MS. People have been very supportive, and that’s been a highlight in my life.

Q: What advice would you give to someone recently diagnosed with MS?

Kim: It would be hard for me to give advice. I think what I would offer is understanding of their feelings.

 

Q: How did you get involved in Bike MS?

Kim: My friend, Craig Lycke, has been riding in honor of his aunt and after I was diagnosed he asked if we could get a team together for me.

Q: Why do you ride? 

Kim: Not to sound cliché, but because I can. I have talked to several people who know someone with MS. It affects people differently, and I am happy that I do not have any mobility issues.

Q: Tell me a bit about your team. Do you do anything special together?

Kim: See above. I have had several friends that have stepped up to put together organized rides a few times a week.

Q: How do you prepare for Bike MS?

Kim: Ride, ride, ride.

Q: How has Bike MS impacted you? Do you have a favorite part of the ride?

Kim: It was encouraging to see so many cyclists wearing the “I ride with MS” shirts. It gives me hope that I will be able to stay active.

Q: This is the 30^th anniversary of the Gateway ride. What would you like to see accomplished in the next 30 years?

Kim: I would like to see that enough money be raised that research can figure out the why and how.