Marion Osuide

Please support my Ambitious Challenge!

Riding for the Ones Who Ride Alone

Two years ago, I watched my husband Austin attempt the M2L charity ride in punishing June heat. It turned out to be the hottest day of the year. He cramped up, rode most of the 100 miles alone, and ultimately had to stop. I will never forget the look on his face at the finish—exhausted, alone, yet heartbreakingly determined.

That day, I made him a promise:

“Next time, I’ll be right there with you.”

This Sunday, I am keeping that promise.

But I am not just riding for Austin. I am riding for every child, teen, and adult living with autism who has ever had to navigate the world without enough support, understanding, or kindness.

You see, Austin’s struggle that day was more than a tough ride. It reminded me of the quiet, often invisible perseverance that autistic individuals and their families show every single day—facing challenges they didn’t choose, with no guarantee that someone will say, “Don’t worry, I’m right here with you.”

Until recently, I admit my understanding of autism was distant. But life has a way of shifting your perspective. Through friends, colleagues, and the families we meet, neurodiversity enters our lives. And when it does, we can either turn away—or step up.

This ride is my way of stepping up.

Of saying: “I see you. I hear you. I’ve got your back.”

Not just on this one day, but every day.

That’s why I’m supporting Ambitious about Autism, a charity working to make sure autistic children and young people can thrive with the right education, opportunities, and understanding. Their work is vital—and it needs people like us to help power it forward.

So here’s what I’m asking:

If my words have moved you—or made you pause even briefly—please consider supporting me with a donation. Big or small, every bit fuels this cause and tells a young person:

“You matter. You’re not alone.”