There are people we meet who change our lives. Norberto is one of them. He is doing the Big Ride in memory of his mother and two former acquaintances, and will be dedicating 100 miles to the strong living presence of Cordelia Hoff, a recent lung-transplant survivor.

Norberto Soto soaking a sore foot after a long day of riding

Cordelia Hoff, a middle-aged woman with children and grandchildren, had suffered from debilitating emphysema. When she required oxygen to breathe, Norberto started bringing it to her home. He got to know her, learned about her two and half long years on a waiting list for a lung transplant. He was sensitive to the delicacy of her position, and just as conscious of her driving will to live.

When Norberto told Cordellia in 1999 of his interest in doing the Big Ride, she was overcome. She couldn't thank him enough for the obvious effort he was making. She insisted on making a contribution. Unfortunately, he was unable to raise enough money for the ride that year.

And then word came that a lung had been found for Cordelia. He talked with her about the troubling nature of the operation and the fear of her body rejecting the lung after the operation. He worried about her.

Then, one day, Cordelia's husband called him. Norberto didn't know what to expect. He had never had much reason to talk to the husband other than with a passing hello. News was hesitantly offered: Cordelia had decided to go through with the operation, and was in guarded recovery. The doctors were monitoring her carefully, but she had not yet returned home.

	Inspire a Big Rider The Big Ride cyclists are pouring energy into a ride benefiting those unable to do it themselves. Let them know that you appreciate them.

A few days before the Big Ride, he called and found Cordelia at home. He told her that he was preparing for his departure. He was still $2500 short, but that would not stop him. His company had let him go, even though he was asking for time away in pursuit of a magnificent philanthropic goal, but that would not stop him either. And now he is a name and face not to be forgotten in this incredible crowd of 200.

Norberto is one of the"little soldiers" he mentioned in a recent conversation, the individuals out there who believe in a cause, who are sensitive to the needs and individuality of people, and generous enough to give of much more than just their time. He too is someone who has helped change others' lives.

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