Leave a message of support for John or Lauren in the box below! Because of all the spam that’s out there, we will have to approve your comment before it’s posted, so you won’t see it right away. If you have a question about the site, please send us an email.
dear john,
hey i’m the girl that made you the card.
and i can not find it here do you know where i can find it?
love,
PerolaHemen
John and Lauren,
You both are a true inspiration. We really want to help you to spread the word and achieve your goals. Please be in touch through my e-mail. I look forward to hearing from you.!
dear John,
i am so glad that you made it. I just wish you could fly instead of driving back to your home. We can’t wait for you to come to our classroom! We are having a party to celebrate your success.
love,
Perola hemen
Shared a flight with your cousin Rachel to New York on Friday 12th October. Rachel was heading out to see you finish the ride on the Brooklyn Bridge and told me all about your excellent cause. I have huge respect for what you have set out to do for your sister. Well done on a great acheivement and good luck with the fundraising.
Mike
Hi Mike!
It was so nice of you to take the time to comment!
Thank you.
Hope everything works out well for you and your family!
Rach
John I think it’s so great what you’re doing for your sister!! This is so awsome! Keep up the good work and best of luck to Lauren on her journey for independence.
You go girl!
Hi Lauren & John,
Your family sounds amazing from Lauren’s description and what a great big brother she has in you John. I ride with both of you in spirit!
My French Bulldog Jezzie & I met Lauren today in Ocean Grove…What a privilege to have heard a bit about the two of you! I’ve shared your link on my FB page & hopefully you’ll get some donations towards her new ride
John it has always been and still is a pleasure to watch you grow up. I am sure Harriett and Candi are both
up there cheering you on and sending their love, hugs, and kisses. It is a great heartfelt gift you are giving
to Lauren and to your parents who have to be full of pride for you doing Laurens ride. God is with you. You
are a man to know. Bob Sr.
What an amazing demonstration of love, determination, and willpower! This is truly awe inspiring!
Good luck and safe travels.
Dear John
How are you doing? You are really an INSPIRATION to all of us! WOW! It’s Bill Tindula and I just wanted to tell you that I am gonna miss this journey of yours and Tony when it’s over. How will I fill the ten minutes that we spend talking about you every day??? You have taught my 3rd graders about geography, math, cleansing ceremonies, friendship and love of family. What a lesson you have also taught them in DETERMINATION and GIVING of yourself. We are very much looking forward to having you come to Nipomo Elementary School for a party on your return, if you would honor us. We, the undersigned think you are TERRIFIC and we are so-o-o-o proud of you!
Nevaeh, Alayna, Gabriela, Alma, Brandon, Camilo, CJ, Bianey, Perola, Cornelio, Julian, Violeta, Andrew, Sonny, Michael, Ruben, Max, Dayana, Chris S., Jasmine, Leo and Jerrod and, of course Mr. Tindula
John,
Very proud of you keep up the great job . Ill be giving you a call here in a few days to check up on you.
This is such an inspiration story and journey. Thank you for being such a great example for us all to follow.
Good luck and God speed on your trip for such a worthy and blessed cause…
JohnT
FDNY
From the words of Chuck Yeager ” Press On”! Keep it up John, Don’t loose site of the goal, every mile past is another mile closer to it. You are doing a great thing for Lauren and you have, “The Right Stuff”. We have been following you before the begining of your ride and you & Tony have been in our daily thoughts and prayers. Be safe and take care of yourselves. You have our support!
For The Love of His Sister
I met a man, not long ago
A wonderful guy, who most of you know.
He left on a journey from the Golden Gate Bridge,
Biking miles through the desert and over the Rocky Mountain Ridge.
For the love of his sister, he’s rode thousands of miles.
He’s met wonderful people and kids with big smiles.
Many miles through cities and high altitude peaks,
We could tell it was hot, by John’s red rosie cheeks.
The perfect man to help John, as he rides on this quest,
Is Tony Hernandez, we think he’s the best!
He makes us laugh with his hats, as we watch each day’s blog.
He even rescued a turtle, what’s next a darn frog?
The one thing Tony won’t do is give John a massage.
So if you think you saw him give one, it was just a mirage.
We love watching each day and seeing where John’s at.
Except for the times, when he is changing a flat.
There are so many people, showing love along the way.
I even think the birds in my yard, were singing louder today.
He has traveled so many roads and over the continental divide
When John reaches New York, he’ll have finished Lauren’s Ride.
Thank you for changing our world.
We love you,
Kevin & Lori Orweller
Go John Go!!! In your mind you’re just going for a bike ride. In reality you are changing lives. Firstly, you are going to change Lauren’s life and give her the freedom that she deserves to live a full life. Second, this trip will change your life and the way that you look at things in the future. Third, you are touching the lives of everyone that meets you and hears your story. Your spirit and drive is amazing! You’re not just going for a ride, you’re making a difference in the world! You’re almost there and although you can’t see us, we’re riding with you!
“Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.” -John Wayne said it and John Byrne proves it…you ride with courage. Living the dream! My family and I follow you everyday on here. It’s an honor to know and work with you. Shout out to Lauren for having the world’s greatest older brother! Strength and Honor my friend!
Whats going on cousin john, we just wanted to say to you that what you are doing for your sister is so amazing and thoughtful. We really hope the rest of your ride goes smoothly and we hopefully can make it to new york when you arrive. Doing a great job john!!!!!! Love Tyler,jenn and alexis
it’s me again perola hemen you are so amazing you are riding so much i couldn’t even ride 1 mile !!!!!
Maby i can ride 5 or3 miles i am only 8 so can’t ride1
our whole class can not wait in tell you come to our class room
love,
Perola hemen
bye bye.
DearJohn,
I am from Mr.Tindula’s class room at Nipomo Elementary school.
Our class is really enjoying your videos! How is your sun burn? The class laughed when we saw that slide show.We are looking forward to your visit! You are in our prayers. Goodn luck on your adventure!
Your friend,Perola
John, Tony and Everyone reading this, by now most of you have seen the heartfelt letter written by Chief Shaffer. I just want to say that my husband and I had the pleasure of meeting him and being there when he spoke with Lauren. It was so touching, the way he interacted with her. There was not one bit of arrogance about him. There we were getting ready for the parade. It was a bit chaotic as the officials were trying to check everyone in and get us lined up. Chief Shaffer was in his dress uniform, polished right down to his shiny shoes and he climbs into our not so clean jeep to sit down in the back with Lauren. He proceeded to listen to Lauren tell her story and I could tell by watching them, that his focus was entirely on her. He paid no attention to the chaos around us. It literally brought tears to my eyes. I was so touched! Kevin snapped a couple of pictures of the two of them. I’m hoping Lauren will upload one of them so you can all see for yourselves. The picture speaks volumes to how genuine Chief Shaffer is. He is one classy man! Lori Orweller
Hey Guys! We were thinking about you quite a bit lately and rode partially up Wolf Creek today. Your our heroes!
Following the posts and enjoying them very much. Keep up the great work!
Larry and Dorothy
Received a call from John while he was biking – didn’t know he could do that – as he was riding down the East side of the Continental Divide. Thrilled to hear about the Navajo cleansing ceremony – Yah-ta-hey !
Make sure you keep applying the sun screen John, the air is thinner at those higher elevations and you can burn more easily
With Love
Laura
Thanks for stopping in Alamosa!! Continue your efforts and rewards will follow. I’m with the Alamosa Fire Department and wish you the best of luck. You WILL get the chair!!!
SAFE TRAVELS!!
Okay John, so this morning, Lori and I went and had coffee with your Dad, Mom & Lauren. We had a wonderful time. My favorite part was when your Dad got electrocuted while trying to fix a leaky sink. He is okay though, no worries, but boy was it funny! So this afternoon, I told Lori that I feel inspired by John today, almost as if I feel your spirit. So I pulled out the old rusty bike, oiled the chain and aired up the tires, gave the wife a kiss and off I went. I got from my driveway to the next door neighbor’s driveway and I hear him holler out “Hey Kevin, you sure look thirsty. Do you want a cold one?” And these four letters came into my head, WWJD. Hmmmm, What Would John Do? He’s probably thirsty right now! So a few beers and a couple hours later, my wife sees me walking home with the bike. And says, “You have been gone quite a while, how far did you get?” When I told her about the WWJD, What would John do? He would probably stop and get something to drink and she said you “Dummy, that was Jesus telling you what not to do!” Thanks for getting me in trouble, John. Stay out of my head! Now I have to go mow the lawn. Love you, brother. Kevin
Don’t know you, but I love your blog, Kevin! I’m going to incorporate WWJD into my life!!!
Go my dear Johnny B — ride with the wind!!!
xooxox
b
Thank you, Barbara. In all honesty, God is very good to my wife and I, and we are truly blessed to be a part of this. The part about John’s father is true (and it was funny!), the rest was just to get a laugh. I thought John could use a little humor. Truth said, I do truly feel John’s spirit and pray for him every day. So thanks for understanding my sense of humor. God Bless you! Kevin
Dear John,
We are all truly inspired and impressed with what you’re doing! I just want you and Tony to know that every day my 21 third graders at Nipomo Elementary School are following you and your route and we are learning a lot about math, geography, history and perseverance! I am trying to show your blogs every day, but they are being blocked so I will be talking to the principal and if that doesn’t work I’ll talk to the head techie for the school district, because the kids keep asking if we’re going to follow John every day. Man, that was a run on sentence! Anyway, just know that we are all behind you and we are all so proud of the entire endeavor!
Sincerely,
Bill Tindula and the 3rd grade class of Room 9 at Nipomo Elementary School
Having just moved across the street from the Nipomo Fire Dept, 9/1/2012 I got caught up in this story upon reading and hearing from our local news! I Think that as a parent of two sons your parents must be so proud as well as your sister that words just cant express what you are doing. (thats how I would feel) secondly you give all of us some one to admire and know that this generation can look to and say here is an example of a leader!. Yet you just seem like a “guy next door” and a I am no hero kind of attitude person. I love that about you and this story and I think it reflects on how you and your sister were raised by your parents no doubt but you as a person! So godspeed and know that we are loving following you on your journey for Lauren and looking forward to living in the neighborhood!
Keep up the good work John! It’s going to be a long trip I think what you’re doing for your sister is amazing and inspiring. I’m honored to know you and call you family.
Hang tough and wear your sunscreen!!!! Keep up the great effort!
It was great to meet you and Tony in Barstow today! My girls were so excited to be on your blog, but we were all horrified that we pretty much rolled out of bed in Albuquerque, and into the car this morning. One of them said, “It figures we would meet a great, hot guy,and we look like crap. lol
Good luck on your trip. I will be praying for your safety and success. God speed.
I am enjoying listening to every one of your blogs and looking at each & every picture taken along the way. What you are doing is amazing and historical for your family. You are wonderful!
“Johnny B.” the only name I know you by. You are an incredible young man and what a wonderful family and support group around you! Know we are thinking of you as you cross America, with great admiration! We know you will take it all the way. Bless you Big Time! Aunt Linda & Uncle Bob (remember us?) aka: Joseph & Alan
Such a wonderful family; I can feel the love you have for each other. Keep safe and strong. And throwing in a little luck never hurts
On On!
you’re Winning Johnny B. this is an awesome thing your’re doing. take your time and stop to smell the roses. this is a once and a lifetime adventure you are on and i hope you cherish it. we are all very proud of you. peace
To John and the whole Lauren’s Ride Team – We really enjoyed being a part of your send off at the Golden Gate Bridge. We will be praying for you all each day for you to have a safe journey. You are all living proof that there are still heros in this world. And John, Guess What? Lauren will be riding in the Newark Days Parade with us on Sept 22nd to continue supporting you. We are so excited to be a part of this. Your family means the world to us. God Bless and we love you, brother. Kevin & Lori
Totally awsome! Wish I could be out there with you guys! So inspired. Stay healthy. Be safe. I’ll be watching your progress. Jim G.
To John, keep peddling and stay safe.
To Lauren, What a wonderful big brother you have!
We’ll be listening to your blog this month! Michelle Mensinger
Dear John,
You are doing a wonderful job for your amazing sister, Lauren. Your dear grandfather, John J. Quigg would be
so proud of your endeavors!! Be safe!
M and M
I’m very happy! I got to say goodbye to Johnny B today as he left Pescadero State Beach on his way to the Brooklyn Bridge. I missed him on Highway 1 in El Granada, for there were about 150 bike riders out today, and I somehow missed seeing him in the hoards of bicyclists. Finally, I called Judy B, she told me they were making a stop in Pescadero. So, I drove to Pescadero where the local Firemen had a lunch for the riders! What great people to do that for him!! I tried to take some videos of him, Lauren, Judy B, etc. — and if the movies turned out, I’ll post them soon.
GO, JOHNNY, GO!!! I’m so very proud of you, and the whole BYRNE FAMILY!!!
oxoxo
b
We had a blast last night. Glad we could help and be their to start this incredible journey. Carl loved playing the guitar for the crowded room. Be safe and know we are all thinking of you every minute on this journey and your selfless act of kindness for your wonderful sister Lauren.
Just wanted to say we had a Blast at the dinner, and enjoyed it so much. Are prayers are there for you John to be safe and the Lord will guide you also. Lauren It was wonderful meeting you and your family. We wish the best for all of you , and cant wait to see you driving in your car in Newark. Bless you all .
J.B the big day has come, good luck you will make it no doubt in my mind at all. Be safe get your rest and Capt. Tony take care of him. Luv you man
Sending our best wishes for you John on the evening before the big ride begins! What an experience it will be. We will follow your adventures with eagerness.
Lauren – I am so glad that the donations are really getting up there! How great it will be for you when the car is yours!
Judy and Dan – aren’t you so proud of your children?
All the Best to all of you from
Carina, Ed, Nick and Will
John, I can only imagine what is going through your mind on the eve of your journey to the east. Great job of putting this together in such a short time with a “hats off to you and your team. It will be all about rest and fuel from here on out. No doubt you will receive energy from people you meet along the way and from your hosts each night. I would love to swap stories after your return and debriefing. Good luck, stay strong, enjoy every moment with what you see and the ones you’ll meet.
Darrell
John wishing you a safe trip as you begin your trip across country. I know your mind is on the finish, but enjoy the journey along the way, this is a once in a lifetime adventure! Me and the guys at the firehouse are looking forward to meeting you once you get to Freehold, everything is starting to fall into place on this end. Im sure we will be talking along the way. Good luck!!
Johnny B! This ride makes me so proud to know you! I will be watching along the way and will continue to share this story!
Lauren, you have an AWESOME brother and you are such an inspiration to people all over.
Good luck to both of you!!
We saw the story of your bike ride in the Tribune today, what a great story that I passed on to friends. We are fortunate to have such special folks as firefighters in our community.
May the wind be at your back and safe journey
tjt
Good Luck safe ride. I will be watching and telling my friends.
John,
Wishing you safe travells with a good tailwind. We only met by chance in passing, but we have a couple things in common, bikes and charity events. Maybe we will be able to hook up sometime when my wife and I head down to Solvang for a bike ride.
Enjoy your ride.
Rick (little red van with a pump) Schoephoerster
Hey John, I’m so glad that I finally got to meet you today. I appreciate your mom bringing you over to meet my wife and I. Just want you to know that we will be praying for you while you are on your journey. Also want you and Lauren to know that if there is anything that we can do to help, you just give us a call anytime. My wife and I, both completely fell in love with your sister, Lauren, the first time we met her. She just has this wonderful spirit within her. Her personality just glows with warmth and fills you with hope. May God bless you along your Journey and keep you safe. We can’t wait to see you all at the dinner. Just remember, God is good all the time. Watch him move!
John and Lauren,
Brittney found your link on Facebook so the word is spreading. Good luck ….we will be following your journey!
Brooke Schroeder
Lauren,
It was so nice to see this in Newark’s Patch. Although I was not your teacher at Kennedy, I remember your wonderful smile and spirit when you passed my room. Nothing has changed that. Wishing you and your family all the best always. Have a wonderful time in college.
Fondly,
Mrs. Kim
Hi John, just wanted to let you know that the Kern County Fire Department will be honored to host you during your stops in Bakersfield and Mojave. What an awesome and inspirational tasks you are undertaking! Good Luck, and see you soon.
I’m so very proud of you John, that it just brings tears to my eyes to think about your journey and all that you’re doing for your dear sister, Lauren. I just wondered where, specifically, is that that you plant to leave from on Sept. 9th. I understand it’s the GG Bridge — but where and what time? It would be fun to see you off!
oxoxo
b
John….It’s a small world. Two of my four sons are in the fire service. We live in Niles. My son Tyler is a FF/Medic for the CalFire/Riverside Unit and we’re looking at a second home in Nipomo! We’ll plan on attending the fundraiser at the Niles Vets Hall. I’ve forwarded the article about you that appeared in the Santa Maria Times to Tyler so he can pass the word throughout the Riverside County Fire Department. You are living proof that a good idea can “catch fire” and change someone’s world. God bless you.
Wow it is a small world. I didn’t know until now it was in the Santa Maria times. Thanks for letting me know. Thank you for your support. I look forward to seeing you on the 8th of September. John
I’m so proud of John and Lauren in all they have become and continue to accomplish. I live everyday simply to enjoy my family and friends as they bring me so much happiness. This ride is a great example of why I’m so fortunate to be part of this family. Stay motivated and strong you two. Love.
Being a part of this family is my favorite part of life. I love you so much Katie Kate Kate Kate Kate <3
Hang in there, Lauren, and good for you John coming up with this idea. I put in a few bucks towards the vehicle, hope things work out. Btw, the site and the cause was mentioned on Google+ quite recently… over here: https://plus.google.com/108176814619778619437/posts/L16Yq2RMX16
Johnny B, you’re amazing. I will definitely be at the Nipomo fundraising dinner. Katie and I moved to Santa Margarita so hit us up when you’re riding through.
John & Lauren you 2 make my heart smile…..you both sure say a lot for your parents….yes, they did something right!!!! and have a lot to be proud of……the best to all of you and God Bless you, as you are in my prayers.
Almost $11,000 since I last checked your website! When are we doing some fundraisers????? Count me in! Your enthusiasm is contagious Johnny!
Received your facebook message. Our Bay2Brooklyn2011 ride last year was awesome, beyond anything I dreamed. I hope you have a memorable trip like I did. I would like to join you on your first few days. I will stay in touch and check the website on a regular basis. You will be there before you know it!
Darrell
Just a note to tell you all how the Fillion Family feels about Lauren and John…..WE LOVE THEM!! I am so proud of both of them. The love between them is amazing. Thank you for making me smile everyday Lauren as I go into the garage and see the Refrigerator magnet you bought me….I wont repeat the words but it makes me think about you every day…I LOVE YOU!!!
Peace and blessings to Lauren and the entire family. Your resiliency, strength, and positive spirit is truly inspirational.
I am So very grateful for all of the support that is, and has been, given to my family and I!!!! It is exactly the reason why I have been able to stay so positive and driven. I can’t thank everyone enough <3 xoxoxoxo
Hi, Lauren! I’m your aunt Susan’s sister-in-law. What a wonderful brother you have, and what an amazing young woman you are. There’s a saying that in life, 10% is what happens to us and 90% is how we react to it. Boy, is your 90% impressive! Best of luck to John as he makes his journey.
Lauren and John, you are an inspiration to all of us! Lauren your courage, warmth and positive energy is awesome! John I will be cheering so you reach your goal of epic proportion. Brooklyn Bridge here you come!!!
John,
It was so nice meeting you last summer in Belmar, NJ. and so glad I got to speak to you again the other day. I was very happy to donate to this worthy cause. You are a mature guy who knows where he is going. Take time getting there. Hope to see you soon.
P.S. Loved the website and the pictures of you and your sister. You are both blessed.
A
Good luck to both John and Lauren! John for his training, ride and fundraising efforts (Rock on!!) and Lauren for her continued physical therapy, further education and continued smiles! I look forward to reading the blogs.
You will succeed on this journey and Lauren I hope all your dreams come true..
John – We are so proud of you and are behind you 100% with your effort to help your sister! You are not only a great fire fighter but a wonderful human being!! We have family and friends in Iowa and across the USA. Please let us know what we can do to help as your trip gets closer!! You make CAL FIRE proud!!
My darling niece, Lauren – You, John and my loving son, Patrick are my world!! You are beautiful – inside and
out. I am so proud of you Lauren! I hope all your dreams come true!! Aunt Susan X0 X0 X0 X0
My godson/nephew John – What you are doing for your sister is such an example of unconditional love!!
You are an amazing young man! Stay safe John and may you reach your goal! Aunt Susan X0 X0 X0 X0
Saw this story on Monica Martineks Facebook and had to donate. (my sister in law) Great story! My husband is also on the fire dept in Jacksonville, FL. Wonderful story of the love of siblings. Best of luck to you both!
John you are one of the most dedicated, passionate people I have had the pleasure of meeting, your such a motivating force. Good luck on your Journey and your sister is so unbelievably lucky to have a brother like you.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world. ~Harriet Tubman”
John, Lauren! Nick sent us the link yesterday about this amazing feat of John’s. I am so impressed and have just made a donation from all of us in the Soubiea Family to contribute to this great cause! To ride a bike from coast to coast is no small endeavour but I am sure John is up for it. Will go and read more right away and I will follow the adventures.
Lauren – it has been awhile since I met you at the Lake but it was such a pleasure. I hope that you soon get your car and can get around anywhere and everywhere!
All the very best from all of us – Carina, Ed, Nick and Will
Hi guys! Lauren I saw you at Cheyenne’s wedding and I know how important you are in her life. I could see then that you had an amazing attitude and a great energy. This is an amazing thing that your brother is doing. You have my support. Good luck, and be safe
What an awesome idea! We look forward to tracking John’s ride and hearing more about Lauren’s college journey as well. Jerry, Karen and Katelyn
what an inspiration….. you put a big smile on my face………. you go girl …
.attitude is 95% of the battle…..awesome site…..thanks (*_*)
John and Lauren – you guys rock! This is such a wonderful idea and hopefully it will be a great adventure for you as well. We wish you all the very best!
John, I am passing this on to everyone I know! You’re awesome (but I’ve always known that). Love to you, Lauren and your folks!
I just met John a few minutes ago. What a wonderful young man to be able to take on such a huge task. Lauren is one lucky girl to have such a loving brother. I wish both of you the best luck in the world.
John and Lauren you are both an inspiration to us and we are so excited to help in anyway that we can!
If your ride takes you through Denver, my daughter Brittany would be happy to offer you a place to stay!
Absolutely awesome guys! Trying to spread the word! I don’t live along your route but if I can do anything let me know!!
John, this is such a definition of family. It is very clear how much you love your sister–we’re rooting for you! Can’t wait to read the posts and track your progress. GOOD LUCK! We know you can do it!
John, you are AWESOME! You inspire me to do more and give more to others. Best wishes on your fundraising efforts and safe travels across our beautiful country! I will be with you in spirit!
“The first essential element of success, .., is to have sufficient confidence in one’s self to brave the criticisms.”
-Thomas Stevens, the first recorded bicyclist to ride across america 4/22/1884.