Despite a rainy ride, fundraisers turned in $81,194 in donations at the eighth annual St. Louis Ride for Kids®, a 16 percent increase over 2008.
More than 225 riders and supporters were at St. Charles Community College in Cottleville, Mo., for the event. After a smooth ride around St. Charles County, the motorcyclists and their police escort returned for a moving Celebration of Life.
The program featured the stories of 10 local brain tumor survivors, including 7-year-olds Challia and Isabelle. Said Challia’s mom, Shauna, “Boo-boos are meant for moms to heal, but I can’t heal this one. We need your help.”
Motorcyclists around the country are helping the PBTF fund brain tumor researchers like Dr. Joshua Rubin, a pediatric oncologist from Washington University School of Medicine, who told the crowd how vital their efforts are.
The top fundraisers were:
- Individual: Brian Kissinger, $10,183
- Chapter/Club: GWRRA MO-Z, $11,653
- Motorcycle Business: Niehaus Cycle Sales, $14,258
Brian Kissinger also won the drawing for a new Honda motorcycle.
Big thanks went to the event’s hardworking volunteers, led by Greg Hoette, Norm and Angie Riekena, John and Lorrie Lehmann, and Charlie and Shirley Barnett.
| Get a 2009 Ride for Kids® registration kit |
