South Louisiana had another beautiful riding day as more than 140 supporters joined the area's sixth annual Ride for Kids® in Lafayette. The event raised $49,979 for the PBTF.
The police-escorted ride toured Acadiana's beautiful winding roads through the bayous near Lafayette, Carencro and Opelousas. Afterward the group returned to SLEMCO headquarters, where they honored three local brain tumor survivors during the Celebration of Life program.
Cameron, 11, Darla, 21, and Brook, 22, shared their stories with the motorcyclists. Darla's mom, Cindy, told them that her daughter is an inspiration. "In spite of her circumstances, she plays down her discomfort and pain," Cindy said. "When asked how she's feeling, Darla always has a positive answer."
The fundraisers also heard from nurse Mary Coubillon, supervisor of the pediatric emergency room at Lafayette General Hospital.
Charles and Anita Porche of Mandeville, La., led the fundraising efforts with $6,289 in contributions. The top club/chapter was GWRRA LA–B with $16,389, and the number one motorcycle business was Southside Honda of Lafayette with $12,351 in customer donations.
Tim Dinnal of Gonzales, La., won the drawing for a new Honda motorcycle.
Many thanks to the event's local task force and volunteers, led in 2008 by Bullet and Nancy McGee, James and Randy Pourteau, and Charlie and Anita Porche.
