More than 225 motorcyclists and supporters raised $44,213 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation at the New England Ride for Kids® on Aug. 16.
The 12th annual event took place on a hot, sunny morning in North Oxford, Mass. Four local brain tumor survivors led the scenic, police-escorted ride through the Berkshire foothills.
The crowd heard from these young people during the Celebration of Life program after the ride. PBTF college scholarship recipient Gary was joined on stage by Caitlyn, 19, Kelly, 14, and Ryen, 9.
“I got to walk across the stage today and I have been practicing with my dad since February to be able to do it,” said Ryen, who has been attending the ride since he was 3 months old. Added his father, Ralph, “He is a survivor because of all of you.”
Dr. Nicole Ullrich, a neuro-oncologist at Children's Hospital in Boston, spoke on behalf of the medical community.
The first-place fundraisers were:
- Individuals: Dave Odess and Perry Robertson, $11,910
- Club/Chapter: GWRRA RI-B, $6,210
- Motorcycle Business: Venco Wings, $16,076
The grand-prize Honda motorcycle went to Emmett Johnson Jr. of North Kingstown, R.I., who said he had been waiting 11 years to win the drawing.
Many thanks went to the local task force and volunteers, led by Shirley Dempsey-Anderson, Wayne Anderson, Dave Odess, and Ron and Cheryl Hrasna.
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