Surprise Change in Weather

  Although most folks who live in New England accept the unpredictable nature of regional weather, recent Doppler technology has allowed for reasonably accurate forecasts, (at least for the next 24hrs.) The weather forecast for Sunday, June 11th was for clear and sunny skies, so plans for the "Ride For Cheer" proceeded along without thought of cancellation. At about 2:30 PM, as we were getting ready to load the support vehicle with BWAH material and souvenirs, the sky suddenly became dark and a spotty drizzle began. Lynn, my support person for the day, was told to go back home, as a last minute decision was made to cancel the "Ride For Cheer".

Surprise Sight at the Parking Lot

  At around 2:45, I drove over to the parking lot of the Motor Vehicle Bureau, expecting to see one or two "diehards". My original intention was to share the news of a last minute cancellation. As I pulled in with my truck, I was quite surprised to see 20+ motorcycles parked, with a spirited group of riders huddled underneath the canopy surrounding the building. When I announced my inclination to cancel, the riders responded with "it isn't too bad", and "it looks like it's clearing". One fellow said, "But isn't there a kid waiting for us?" The group seemed determined to go forward with the "Ride For Cheer". As the sky seemed to clear, I called the Denger family from my cell-phone, and explained the situation. Alice, Patrick's mom, said, "It isn't raining here", and, "besides, although Patrick is sweet, he isn't going to melt". After hearing that, and seeing the sky clearing, I rushed back home, traded vehicles, and rode my motorcycle back to the parking lot with plans to proceed. Things looked quite encouraging as the rain stopped and the sky was brightening.

The Ride to Biddeford

 Inspired by the spirit and drive of the committed BWAH riders, we set out on the ride to Biddeford, led by Sgt. Gary Fecteau and the Sheriff's Dept. cruiser. The ride into Biddeford went very smoothly, but as we were approaching Patrick's home, the sky quickly darkened again, and a steady rain returned. Determined, we pushed forward and greeted Patrick in his garage. Patrick and his family greeted us warmly. Although the "Rides For Cheer" are intended to be staged outdoors, with the reception typically occurring in front of a child's home, the Denger family, (well known to BWAH, as their other two children have been visited in the past), insisted that the wet but spirited BWAH riders come into their home to dry off.

A unique "indoor" encounter

  It was clear that Patrick was so happy to see us, being offered much opportunity to laugh at the antics of "Pepe" the clown, who was filling in for Renzo. The enthusiastic, (but moist), group of bikers were grateful to the Denger family for their warm hospitality, in literally opening up their living room for them to greet and bring cheer to Patrick. The spirit was warm and lively. Unfortunately, the certificate and grab bag never made their way to the household; so another visit with a "parade ride" is being planned for a future date. Time and date will be announced shortly.

The Denger family as "veterans"

  Although BWAH respects the privacy of all recipients and families regarding details of medical problems, the Dengers are agreeable to have their "story" told. Rachel, their oldest daughter, stricken with (2) chronic diseases, was visited by BWAH several years ago. The following summer, as the family escorted Rachel to Camp Sunshine, (a camp for chronically ill children), one of the staff physicians noted an abnormal gait, (method of walking), in her younger brother Matthew. After a series of tests and consultations, Matthew was diagnosed to have muscular dystrophy. BWAH staged a "Ride For Cheer" for Matthew in 1999, a time when he was still able to walk. It was a grand success. This past winter, Alice Denger made me aware of the unfortunate news that Patrick, Matthew's younger brother, was also recently diagnosed to have muscular dystrophy. Recalling how special an experience it was for his brother, Patrick asked if BWAH could do a "Ride For Cheer" for him. Of course, we were more than agreeable.

Gratitude

  BWAH thanks Sgt. Gary Fecteau for his usual level of professional and selfless support, (his escort was offered on his day off from work), the Biddeford Police Department who did a superb job of traffic control, Pepe who brought much laughter and cheer to Patrick, Seacoast HOG participants for traveling over and contributing to the lively spirit, and the kind and courageous Denger family, for offering us "dry shelter" and treating us like family.

"Ride For Cheer" for July

  Please mark in your calendars July 8th for the next "Ride For Cheer", (weather permitting!). If the ride is cancelled, than a make-up ride is schedule for the following Sunday, same time, same place. Ride safe, and…