BWAH Banner for August

   The August ride for cheer went off without a hitch. We left Kennebunk via Route 1, and took the scenic route to Biddeford. Thanks to Lt. Gary Fecteau, the Sheriff's Dept. and Road Captains we enjoyed a safe ride on another beautiful day. I did overhear Vas tell Mary that his blood pressure goes down several points when you arrive, Gary. Did you have any idea of the therapeutic value you offer the good doctor? It was a fine day to be on a bike with a good gathering of almost 30 bikers. We missed Gary who has been so accommodating with his sidecar and the Almodarr, the magician. But, we did everything possible to do to provide a wonderful visit for Sarah. She was promised a parade ride one day in the future when a side car is available.

Sarah

   What a very special little girl this Sarah is! When we arrived in her yard she was sitting expectantly in her wheelchair with a big smile on her face. Sarah who is 15 is small for her age, but this child is very impressive. She graciously thanked us for coming, and told us she had not expected anything like it. The fact that we were not able to offer her a parade ride only brought another smile. Her mother informed me that Sarah is a very lovable child. She said Sarah truly enjoys being the center of attention, so our visit was perfect for her. It was a pleasure for us to make her the center of our attention! She seems to quickly generate a warm bond with people, and I think we all felt it. Sarah participates in Special Olympics in the Equestrian Division if you please. She has a special ramp at her house to allow her to move from her chair to horseback. I wonder how much courage it took for that little girl to try that the first time.

Gifts and Honors

  Madelyn and Mary Beth, who were visiting from Virginia, presented Sarah with her gift bag. Steve Bowdich a first timer from Freeport who found us on the Internet read the Certificate of Honor and presented it to Sarah. Because there was no parade ride I noticed that we all lingered a little longer and many folks make warm contact with Sarah before we left. Have you noticed that when there is a void in your life it is often filled with something equally satisfying?

The Video Caper

   As I promised I checked again with Marty Liebmann who is trying to develop a video of BWAH which includes shots of the rides. I got a quick preview of how the July ride looked via his camera. He also wants to interview some of the BWAH folks, so please introduce yourself and tell him wonderful stories of our history from your personal perspective. It is wonderful that there are always new people and new agendas for BWAH.

Important Reminder

   Because the second Sunday in September is the Toy Ride in Augusta the BWAH ride will take place on the third Sunday of the month. We will meet at the same time, 3PM, and the same place, Coastal Decorating. Please come and help us make another deserving child "the center of attention".