“This is about keeping Ava’s spirit alive. Even though she is no longer here, her spirit will live on in giving to others.”

Each year, Paul Sutera cycles across the Midwest in a 500 mile trip to raise money for the Ava Jane Howerton Memorial Fund. Donations from Paul’s “Journey of the Heart” trip ensure nature access for kids. Read on to see the recent updates from Paul’s extraordinary trip! 

My 35 day “Journey of the Heart”  bicycle ride to honor the memory of Ava Jane Howerton is underway! I flew to Minneaplois/St Paul, and then was shuttled 4 hours north to the official start of the great Mississippi River at Lake Itasca. Day 1 was a 64 mile ride under sunny but cool temperatures. I have shared with Serena & Chris that I continuously feel Ava’s presence on these journeys.” -Paul, 9/13/2026

     “The bicycle rider while on a tour like this has the following mantra:
EAT-RIDE-SLEEP-REPEAT!!!
      We have completed 5 days and 318 miles of the journey, cycling from the beginning of the mighty Mississippi River in northern Minnesota to our first rest day in St Paul. The temperatures have been on the cooler side (50s-60s) and the headwinds at times have been challenging, but aside from a 25 mile stretch of cold driving rain, the cycling has been spectacular. It’s amazing to witness the development of the Mississippi River as we travel south. One fun fact- it takes a drop of water 3 months to travel from its origin to the Gulf of Mexico. We will be doing it in 31 days!!!!” -Paul, 9/18/2026

Check back soon for more updates. Paul, we thank you for your incredible dedication and kindness. We can’t wait to hear more exciting updates. 

Thank you for donating to ensure nature access to kids!