Mike Hynes #ServiceSupporter

March 1st is my first day in a transition from the ranks of a TVA employee to that of a TVA retiree. To mark this special day, I am traveling to San Diego, California where I will be joining ten accomplished cyclists from across the US and Europe in an epic trip across the United States. Although a novice, I will spend the next 45 days cycling across the Southern Tier of the United States and (hopefully) arriving in St. Augustine, Florida on April 15th.

Although the rocking chair on the porch looked very attractive for the next month or so, I wanted to do something mentally and physically challenging but do so in the spirit of serving others. My wife, Victoria and I have been volunteers for Retrieving Independence, a Nashville-based nonprofit that breeds, trains, and places service dogs with people who are living with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Through that time, we have seen firsthand how much these service dogs have done to enhance the everyday lives of their recipients.

By supporting my cross country bike ride, you're helping me raise funds for Military veterans who are seeking the therapeutic support of a service dog to help them deal with trauma they have incurred as a result of serving our country. Military veterans, and their families, have always inspired us because of their sacrifice to our country. This presents us with a huge opportunity to say thank you and serve those who have serve all of us.

Additionally, funds raised can be directed to a close friend and member of our community, Ed McCaffrey, to fund the placement of a fully trained service dog with Ed or a US veteran at a reduced or no-cost to them. To contribute directly to Ed's service dog fund, please visit this link:

https://retrievingindependence.kindful.com/?campaign=1292174