A perfect spring day

   We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day for the second “Ride for Cheer” of the season. This month we had the pleasure of meeting four and a half year old Shiloh. What a cutie! As more than sixteen motorcycles made their way into the parking lot of the Lobster Pound restaurant owned by Shiloh’s grandparents, cheers came out from Shiloh and her many family members. A somewhat overwhelmed Shiloh excitedly shouted over and over “I want to ride in the white car!” (One could clearly surmise however, as she clutched onto her mother that she did not want to ride on a motorcycle!)

A word about Shiloh

   Shiloh was born with Sirenomelia. The term Sirenomelia comes from "siren" or "mermaid" because of the characteristic fusion of the lower extremities. Shiloh was born with an appendage instead of legs. Children who suffer with this disease usually do not survive long after birth. Shiloh has undergone multiple surgeries in her young life including a kidney transplant 2 years ago. What a miracle and blessing this little girl is to her family and friends!

Smiles all around

   Whether you were a BWAH “old timer” or a new comer, you were surely touched by the spirit of this young girl and her family. One of the highlights of the day was Shiloh’s mother, Leslie, joining the parade as a passenger on one of the bikes (you can certainly see where Shiloh gets her spirit!). As the pack made their way around picturesque Cape Porpoise, little Shiloh joined her dad in the back of Lt. Gary’s police car flanked in the front and rear by smiling BWAH riders. What a sight it was!

New faces

   Presenting the gift bag was enthusiastic newcomer Lindsey Casey followed by the “certificate of proclamation” being read by her mother Debbie (me). One wonders when looking out at the smiles of the crowd who are the givers and who are the recipients of the day’s joy. All in all, I think everyone’s cup was overflowing as the June ’04 BWAH “Ride for Cheer” came to a close.

Next ride:
Don’t forget to join us the second Sunday in July for the next “Ride for Cheer”, and thanks to all who helped brighten Shiloh’s day and keep us all safe!