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Randi Hammer
from Temecula, California | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:50:05 PM MST
I know it's such a cliche, but I truly believe that when one door closes, another one opens. As a mom (of a cyclist), I empathize with you and your parents. I will keep you in my throughts and prayers. |
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ed ruppert
from silver spring, md. usa | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:40:46 PM MST
i'm very sorry to hear about the [ for now ] end of your racing. good luck in what comes your way. you have proved alot. i really i'm surprised you got this far. i'm 52 years old and look up to you.- just thought i'd tell you that. peace to ya, ed |
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Larry Chladek
from Minnesota (Southern ) | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:28:15 PM MST
Saul, I met you and your dad at the Garmin booth at Interbike this year. I never thought I'd actaully meet someone as amazing as you in person.
I still haven't cracked open your book. I'm saving it for when I NEED inspiration in my life. The photo with you will be on my desk everyday as a reminder there is still this amazing book waiting for me about the kid that "just does". There is no such thing as I can't.
I just read your note on the doctors' decision to not to let you race. Of this I am sorry for the rest of the world. They won't get the chance to see what a person can really do when they love something. But now you can focus that love towards Aleeza and others that need that same kind of strength in their lives.
Keep sharing that love of the bike and life!
Again I say, if you are ever in Minnesota (you laughed when I said this before), I'd have a bunch of people that would love to just ride with you. Its not always cold here. But living in Utah, you have a feeling for what it can be like (just no mountains). |
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DAVID BURNS
from EAGLE, COLORADO | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:27:49 PM MST
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR NEW WIFE AND LIFE.  |
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Nancy Toby
from http://tdflr.blogspot.com/ | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:22:00 PM MST
We're still big fans. Best wishes to you as you continue your remarkable and inspiring journey. |
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Luciano Barragan
from Redondo Beach, CA | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:21:13 PM MST
Hi Saul,
I read your book, followed your story, and checked your site almost every day. Cycling is not everything. The bicycle almost killed you, and then the same bicycle helped you recover miraculously. You can argue that cycling makes miracles but I disagree: you made the miracle, not the bicycle. You are the one who battled and won. I don't know if this makes any sense to you, or if it helps at all. Anyway, I think you have to move on: you have a whole new life ahead; get married, have kids (more miracles), love your family forever, and keep believing in you. That's all it matters.
Life is a long road full of obstacles, roundabouts, cross-paths, etc. Make sure you enjoy the ride.
PS: Please, keep posting stuff in your site.
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Slover
from West Hollywood, CA | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:16:21 PM MST
Hey Saul,
Don't think about you can't bike race. Think about your new life with your beautiful wife Aleeza.. Good luck with everything..
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Marilyn
from tacoma | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:11:45 PM MST
saul, you will all ways be Saul Raisin, Pro Cyclist and Saul Raisin Humanitarian.
I told peopel you were my friend and even tho, we never met, I feel that way to this day. You have inspired me to get on my bike and ride even tho, I was tired, somewhat over weight and zero skills.
You are a GREAT man of courage.
G D has helped you and will bless you ten fold. You are better then ten sons to your parents
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Brad Hoyt
from New York | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:11:38 PM MST
Saul:
Although I am sorry that you will not be able to continue in professional cycling a new life for you is waiting. You have endless oppurtunities, and a very beautifull girl in your life that will be your wife soon. You are a amazing person! Good luck!
Brad |
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Lisa Millslagle
from Acworth, Ga | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:08:49 PM MST
Hey Saul,
I am so sorry to hear the news. Keep your head up. Don't worry be happy now-- because you still have your wonderful life and living strong. Maybe in a couple of year's after you have healed even more and get even stronger than you are now, we will see a come back to the top step of that podium that every cyclist dreams of. You will be a star in what ever God brings you to do.
Hey I have a idea--I don't know if you have seen or heard of the new cycling movie coming out VO2MAXthemovie. There is a clip on cyclingnews about this. They are looking for actors and professional cyclist. I think you would be awsome in this movie since your heart and lungs are huge and we know what kind of vo2 max you can achieve. Drop these guys a head shot and resume, maybe god will deliver your next cycling assignment.
This could be huge.
Good Luck!!
Drop me a line if you ever need a riding partner to come down and ride the Silver Comet trail.
madone@bellsouth.net
Best of Luck Sal.
You are a hero to lots.
Lisa Millslagle |
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Tim
from French Pyrenees | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:06:59 PM MST
Dear Saul,
I am saddened to hear you will not get to race again that is a tough thing to accept....but at least you can still enjoy riding and living. I followed your story from your accident on and you have been an inspiration for me along with so many others. I became ill about two years ago and retreated to a small house the French Pyrenees to recover and ride my bike. Now I am going back to work and returning to the ordinary never felt so good. Good luck for the future. Thanks for all that you have given to cycling fans. Who knows, perhaps the best is yet to come? |
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Neil
from Seattle | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 02:05:40 PM MST
Saul - Fear not! There is NO challenge too great for you to overcome considering what you have already achieved. Best wishes for a long, happy, loving and productive life! |
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Dave
from Los Angeles | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:58:31 PM MST
Saul,
Your recovery is truly amazing. It is unfortunate that you won’t be able to compete any longer, but as you have said you can still live and enjoy your life. I too have suffered a traumatic brain injury. Two years ago I had a hemorrhage due to a malformation (AVM) bursting. I loved the bike and still have some trouble with my ankle which makes it difficult to ride. I will never give up and fully intend on riding again. Thanks for the encouragement! |
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mike
from england | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:54:11 PM MST
Saul, I just want to thank you for the example you give to people all across the world. Your courage is without question. But more inspiring for me is your humanity. When we are faced with circumstances beyond our control it is all too easy to feel that our lives are predetermined and that we should just accept what life is dealing us. Time and again (though not often enough) we are reminded by individuals who take a different stance, who ask them self what they can give to the world and draw on that most powerful of resources, the human spirit, to face every difficulty as an opportunity. You, sir, are one of these people. You had a goal in cycling but I think in time you will realise (perhaps you already do) that that goal was simply an embodiment of all the values you hold dear. Hard work, passion, loyalty, love for those around you. That hard work you speak of in your blog is not over, it was the base work for the next chapter of your life. You may have moments in the days ahead where you feel lost. When you are searching for that next goal do not despair at that most daunting question we all try to answer - what is the meaning of my life? Instead ask, what is the meaning IN my life? You already know this. You have drawn on it to come back from the edge of death and defy medical expectation. But please don\'t forget it.
People have a lot to learn from your achievements and you have a lot to teach (maybe that\'s a new career?). I apologise for the long post and English spelling. I\'m not qualified to be giving out advice but perhaps if you need some inspiration yourself you can take it from someone who most certainly was qualified - The Blazeman, Jon Blais. He said, \'Understand that this is not a dress rehearsal, this is it, your life. Face your fears and live your dreams. Take it all in. Yes, every chance you get. Come close. And by all means, whatever you do, get it on film.\'
Best wishes for today and tomorrow,
Mike |
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mike
from england | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:53:50 PM MST
Saul, I just want to thank you for the example you give to people all across the world. Your courage is without question. But more inspiring for me is your humanity. When we are faced with circumstances beyond our control it is all too easy to feel that our lives are predetermined and that we should just accept what life is dealing us. Time and again (though not often enough) we are reminded by individuals who take a different stance, who ask them self what they can give to the world and draw on that most powerful of resources, the human spirit, to face every difficulty as an opportunity. You, sir, are one of these people. You had a goal in cycling but I think in time you will realise (perhaps you already do) that that goal was simply an embodiment of all the values you hold dear. Hard work, passion, loyalty, love for those around you. That hard work you speak of in your blog is not over, it was the base work for the next chapter of your life. You may have moments in the days ahead where you feel lost. When you are searching for that next goal do not despair at that most daunting question we all try to answer - what is the meaning of my life? Instead ask, what is the meaning IN my life? You already know this. You have drawn on it to come back from the edge of death and defy medical expectation. But please don't forget it.
People have a lot to learn from your achievements and you have a lot to teach (maybe that's a new career?). I apologise for the long post and English spelling. I'm not qualified to be giving out advice but perhaps if you need some inspiration yourself you can take it from someone who most certainly was qualified - The Blazeman, Jon Blais. He said, 'Understand that this is not a dress rehearsal, this is it, your life. Face your fears and live your dreams. Take it all in. Yes, every chance you get. Come close. And by all means, whatever you do, get it on film.'
Best wishes for today and tomorrow,
Mike |
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Ken Bell
from Harrisonburg, VA | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:30:08 PM MST
Hi Saul,
Even if you cannot return to the pro peloton, there are a number of other ways you might be able to achieve some cycling (peddling) dreams.
How about the 1 hr record? or else some other sort of HPV record. This guy seems to be all about these "bikes" or "boats" http://www.adventuresofgreg.com/
Good luck. |
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David
from Massachusetts | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:20:08 PM MST
Very sorry to hear the news, but very glad you are in a position to enjoy those who love you.
You can always dust off a cross bike! Plenty of fun to be had there.  |
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Donald Jones
from Raleigh, NC | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 01:16:38 PM MST
Saul- Your life begins now! It\'s like you\'re taking that first ride again without the training wheels... and just like you did when you were young... you\'ll find your balance, steady up and ride on! Best, Donald Donald\'s Daily Draft |
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Shane Stokes
from Dublin | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 12:48:28 PM MST
Hi Saul, very sorry to hear the news..you might remember we did some interviews before for Cyclingnews. Would have been super to see you back racing but I am sure you will find something else great to focus on! Being healthy again is the most important thing..you have already achieved great things to get where you are. Best of luck with the change in direction, I'm sure we'll chat at a race in the future. And enjoy your wedding! |
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Jon of Team-Will.org
from Fair Oaks, CA | Signed on: Fri 23 Nov 2007 12:39:14 PM MST
I hear that a non-profit called "Raisin Hope" is looking for an executive director to lead their cause. I'm pretty sure they are looking for an individual with an inspiring story of hope and courage that could be used to catalyze resources to assist individual's who have suffered traumatic brain injuries. Do you know such an individual? Seriously, your greatest asset is you and your story, and you have displayed the courage and tenacity to take your injury and positively effect millions of lives. |
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Gerda
from Belgium | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 11:28:10 PM MST
Hey Saul
Just go for what's ahead. Pro-cyclist or not, you will make it.
Turn this bad thing into something beautiful. If anyone can do it, it's you! 
I understand you feel down now but also am sure you will come out of this stronger.
Good luck beautiful, and keep in touch. |
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David
from South Carolina | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 11:16:27 PM MST
Saul, I can't imagine how crushing this is for you, as most of us can't. On the other side of the coin, you have the chance to enjoy a long and happy life with your bride, and be an ambassador for cycling, in aspects of health, safety, and training. I have no doubts that the intensity you displayed in training, racing, and recovery will be refocused to the betterment of racers and cyclists everywhere.
Though difficult, thanks can be given to a new chance at life and new horizons. Saul Raisin, hero of professional and enthusiast cycling. It has a nice ring to it.
Be well, and live life fully! |
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Joe K.
from Bend, Oregon | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 08:44:13 PM MST
Hey Saul, whatever the doctors told you must be devastating. But, nothing is worth losing your life or risking losing your life needlessly. I lost a career once. Making a new life is hard. It doesn't happen overnight. I have been searching for a new place in the world for six or seven years now. along the way I have made new friends, had new experiences that I never would have had back in my old profession. Sounds like you are off to a good start with a new partner in life. Some people may believe you only get one chance in life to make it big in whatever. Not true, there are opportunities around every corner, and you have to be ready and open to change and take advantage of them. Even though it may seem things are out of your control. You can still make choices and have a great life, career, family and friends. Best of luck to you. You have already achieved more than most people. It's not what you do in life that defines you...it's how you do it. |
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Anne Smith
from Austin, TX | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 08:43:57 PM MST
Hi Saul,
My prayers are with you for a wonderful future in whatever it is that God leads you to do. He is faithful and will find a great purpose for your life. You've already inspired so many. I recently read you book and couldn't put it down. I'm not even a cyclist! God Bless You and congratulations on your upcoming marriage to Aleeza.
Anne |
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Tim
from Calhoun/Ga | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 07:54:54 PM MST
Just read the piece on cyclingnews regarding your returning to racing, Saul, regardless of the decision regarding getting back into racing at this time you have been and continue to be an example to so many, that is something that will have far reaching ramifications in so many lives for many years to come. Keep pressing on as my late Dad would say . |
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The Shields Family
from Salt Lake City | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 10:20:30 AM MST
Hi Saul,
On this Thanksgiving Day we are grateful for your friendship. You're a fantastic person. Keep on inspiring people to exceed expectations and accomplish great things!
Love,
Sabrina, Lauren, Carly, Elle, and Dave |
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Domen
from Kamnik, Slovenia | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 09:45:16 AM MST
Hey Saul!
Tell us your results!!! |
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Joe Burtoni
from Durango Co | Signed on: Thu 22 Nov 2007 08:49:23 AM MST
Saul,
I just finished reading your book and was quite moved. What a story of success. Cycling heals in a multitude of ways!
Best to you and your endeavors.
Joe Burtoni |
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| Rachel Raisin (Saul | Signed on: Wed 21 Nov 2007 06:10:15 PM MST
Hey Saul! Happy Thanksgiving! call us! |
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Luke and Jammie
from Fruit Heights, Ut. | Signed on: Sun 18 Nov 2007 07:36:55 PM MST
Saul,
We just wanted to thank you again for letting us say Hi. It was so nice of you to take time to chat with us. You are a very approachable and down to earth. Thanks for riding in Davis County, hope to see ya back. |
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