The Puget Sound Ride for Kids® celebrated its 15th anniversary in record-breaking fashion on Sept. 9, raising more than $119,000 to help children with brain tumors. The total set a new high for the event, which benefited the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.
More than 375 motorcyclists and supporters gathered at Remlinger Farms in Carnation, Wash., on a clear, sunny morning. Young brain tumor patients were on board as the police-escorted ride toured the farmlands of King and Snohomish counties, with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
Back at Remlinger Farms for the moving Celebration of Life program, the crowd heard directly from the children the ride helps. Kids like Claire, 4, and Reese, 15, talked about their lives outside of treatment, where their loves include simple pleasures such as chocolate cake and lacrosse.
Wes, the father of 6-year-old Xander, said, "We are here to honor those who are only here in spirit. We come to the events because these kids deserve it."
Other special guests included Dr. Bill Thomas, a pediatric oncologist at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital, and KMPS radio personality Ichabod Caine, who rode in the event. The motto of his new motorcycle club, the Baby Vrroomers, is "No man is as tall as when he rides for a child."
After the Celebration of Life, attendees were thrilled by the Seattle Cossack Skill Riding Team, whose control aboard their vintage motorcycles delighted both riders and non-riders alike.
The event raised a total of $119,399. Top individual fundraisers were Ken Watson and Marie Chavez of Lynwood, Wash., who brought $15,262. Members of GWTA Washington Chapter E raised $23,182 to make it the top club, while customers of Everett Powersports turned in $46,808 to make it the top motorcycle business.
Meredith Daniels of Gig Harbor, Wash., won the grand prize, a new Honda motorcycle.
Heartfelt thanks went to the event's local task force, led by Dick and Ginny Stryker, Ken Watson and Marie Chavez. Along with visitation leaders Mike Tennyson and Mick and Mary Rairdin, these dedicated volunteers organized an unforgettable day for the kids.
