A new season of cheer

   There's a special quality about the first "Ride For Cheer" of the BWAH season. There's an atmosphere of "reunion", a coming together of BWAH folks after a long wintertime period of hibernation. It was great to see all the familiar faces and to hear the stories from the off-season. The feelings generated clearly reinforce a sense of a "BWAH family".

Roger's day finally arrives

   The BWAH season, (our tenth year!), was off to a bit of a rocky start. Our recipient, a young boy named Roger from Sanford, had his patience tested as, not only was his "Ride For Cheer" canceled due to rain, but the make-up date the following week was rained out as well! His ride therefore had to be shifted to June and poor Roger had to wait several weeks. His patience was clearly rewarded, as the "Ride For Cheer" was a great success, leaving him very happy and moved by the experience.

   Roger suffers with a condition known as Legg-Calve-Perthe's Disease, a condition that seriously affects the function of the hip. Roger was particularly unfortunate, as he's one of the rare children that have it affect both hips. Last year, he was wheelchair bound, and, making slow but steady progress this year, he's now able to walk with the assistance of crutches. This condition has caused him to miss out on many of the usual physical activities enjoyed my most young boys his age. All of his woes were forgotten on that special day in June when the BWAH riders provided him with his "Ride For Cheer!" The look on his smiling and glowing face said it all!

Thanks, Mr. Nadeau

   Gratitude goes out to Deputy Sheriff Matt Nadeau who filled in for Lieutenant Gary Fecteau, (who couldn't make it that day). Not only did he do a superb job of police escort, but enthusiastically presented Roger with his "Certificate of Proclamation."

Roger's mom was very gracious and hospitable, and sent us a lovely note afterward of thanks:

   "I would just like to tell you how much you have touched our hearts. I didn't really expect the kind of impact that we had from your visit. We hope that you know how you touch so many people in ways that no one has ever even attempted. Roger has not stopped talking about his bike ride yet!!! As I think back about the hard times Roger has gone thru, one thing sticks in my mind and that is the wonderful people who gave him a day to himself and made him realize he is very special. Thank you so much. I hope you continue doing this for many many years to come, lots of children out there need a smile on their face.
Our prayers are with you now and forever."

Thanks to all the BWAH riders for participating and the Road Captains for ensuring a safe ride. See you all at the next "Ride For Cheer!"