Amy de Boisblanc: Rider Profile

The fellowship among breast cancer survivors is something that many will never understand. Having support and understanding from those who have gone down the same road can make the entire experience less daunting. Amy de Boisblanc is a breast cancer survivor who rides for Texas Mamma Jamma in solidarity with her fellow survivors, knowing the impact Mamma Jamma’s programs have had on her own journey.

Why do you ride and fundraise for the Texas Mamma Jamma Ride?

In July 2018, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I have been undergoing treatment since then. I have been fortunate enough to gain support from several of the Mamma Jamma beneficiaries. Prior to my breast cancer diagnosis and birth of my daughter, I was very involved in cycling and rode often. However, riding has taken a back seat recently as I work to get my strength and energy back post-treatment. I wanted to get back on the bike, and participating in the Mamma Jamma ride seemed like the perfect opportunity to motivate me. I also want to raise awareness of the services provided by the beneficiaries and give a little back to the local organizations and programs from which I have gained so much support throughout my journey.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in the UK and moved to Texas in 2010 for a job in neuroscience research at UT. My plan was to return to England after a year or two, but I ended up loving it so much that I am still here 9 years later. I have moved on from research and academia and now work in the Tech industry at Facebook. I'm married to a Texan and have a 2 year old daughter who is already showing a love for cycling.

What is your favorite non profit beneficiary of the ride and why?

The Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC) has been incredibly helpful for me navigating through treatment over the past 18 months. They provided me with a community of other young survivors to connect with and, having a patient navigator whom I can ask questions and gain support from has also been invaluable.

Who do you ride for?

I ride for my family and all my fellow survivors.

Who do you ride with?

I'm a member of the Bicycle Sport Shop club who has had several riders participating in the Mamma Jamma ride over the years. Last year, I was fortunate to meet up with some of the BSS folks at the start, along with some old friends from my mountain bike racing days. We all rode together and had a blast!

Any special rituals before or after the ride?

I don’t have any special rituals for the ride, I’m not big on prep work. I'm definitely the disorganized one in the group, usually forgetting my water/snacks or to pump up my tires and check over my bike. I should maybe start a new ritual to help me remember everything!

What do you love most about the Texas Mamma Jamma Ride?

The atmosphere at the ride is incredible and the whole event is so well planned and executed. I love the post-ride meal, beer and band where you can relax and recover from the ride while catching up with team members and meeting new friends. There is an amazing sense of community at the event with everyone passionate about and riding for the same cause.



By Sabina Conditt, Communication Intern