Motorcyclists at the Philadelphia Ride for Kids® brought $158,142 in donations to the event, breaking an all-event record for the third year running.
With 550 supporters on hand at the King of Prussia Mall, the festive atmosphere matched the sunny day. The riders enjoyed a leisurely, police-escorted ride past George Washington's encampment in Valley Forge National Monument, along the Brandywine River to Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square.
The crowd heard from eight local brain tumor patients, including two 4-year-olds, Angelina and Althea. Also speaking were the parents of two stars, Kyle Kerpan and Tyler Bookman, who had passed away in the last year.
Dr. Jay Storm, a pediatric neurosurgeon and researcher at Children's Hospital, praised the crowd for its efforts. Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King, he said, "It's always the right time to do the right thing," adding, "You are doing the right thing."
Neil Bookman of Jenkintown, Penn., was the top individual fundraiser. The $65,365 he turned in was raised in memory of his son, Tyler. Team America Collectors of Cherry Hill, N.J., raised $68,100 to make it the top club. Top motorcycle business honors went to Ken Carr Cycle Center of Norristown, Penn., whose customers raised $17,002. The grand prize Honda motorcycle went to David Uhle of Churchville, Penn.
Heartfelt thanks went to the local volunteer task force, led by Mitzi and Lee Krauss, Joel Samick, and visitation leaders Lisa and Rex Alfes, for organizing a spectacular event.
