The 17th annual Puget Sound Ride for Kids® raised $90,514 on a sunny day in the Pacific Northwest. Over 370 motorcyclists, brain tumor survivors, and supporters participated in the event at Remlinger Farms in Carnation, Wash.
From this working farm and tourist destination, the motorcyclists wound their way through the beautiful countryside surrounding Carnation. The ride eventually looped back for the Celebration of Life, where the crowd cheered the amount raised as well as the accomplishments of 12 local brain tumor survivors.
Those Ride for Kids® “stars” included 8-year-olds Claire and Zander and PBTF scholarship recipient Kathryn. Also attending were several parents and family members of children that are no longer with us.
“What I love about the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is that they really put an emphasis on early diagnosis,” said Christina, the mom of 12-year-old Nick. “After years of treatments these children are amazing. Their courage, endurance and ability to overcome the difficulties they face make them an inspiration to us all.”
Dr. Bill Thomas of Mary Bridge Children’s Health Center told the riders that the funds raised make a huge difference for research into this devastating disease. Ichabod Caine of KMPS 94.1 FM rode in the event and pumped up the crowd.
The No. 1 fundraisers were:
• Individual: Ken Watson and Marie Chavez, $11,217
• Chapter/Club: Headless Horsemen, $19,502
• Motorcycle Business: Everett Powersports, $24,503
The drawing for a new Honda motorcycle was won by David Berg of Everett, Wash.
The Puget Sound Ride for Kids® task force is led by Ken Watson and Marie Chavez, Mike Tennyson, and Mick and Mary Rairdin.
