Tom and his daughter Nichole
Tom's Top 5 Playlist: Uptown Funk - Bruno Mars Blurred Lines - Robin Thicke Welcome to the Jungle - Guns N' Roses Black Velvet - Alannah Myles Money for Nothing - Dire Straits |
TOM MANDERS
Tom returns to Gears for RAAM 2016 after being a crew member last year. He will be joining his daughter Nichole Taylor on the road this year as she joins Gears as a Crew Chief. Nichole was diagnosed with MS and Tom has watched her battle it everyday. He says, 'it shook my daughters life and watching how she handles it and her inner strength, she is my hero." Tom is thankful to be retired at this stage in life after working as a support analyst for TriWest Healthcare Alliance and serving in the military. On the upcoming journey is looking forward to the camaraderie, overcoming a new challenge and being able to see America from a different view. Tom says, "life is so fast paced and seeing little America slowly will be eye opening." Tom is looking forward to getting everyone across the finish line safely and is least excited about the lack of sleep that is bound to take it's toll on all involved. He plans to hug his wife, daughter and grandgirls upon crossing the finish line in Annapolis. He will also remember to take a breath and remember how luck he is to be in this wonderful country. Tom would most like to sit down to lunch with God because he is a good listener. His most coveted super power would be the ability to read minds. |