"Make up" to June's Ride For Cheer

  For those of you who were able to participate in June's "Ride For Cheer" (see BWAH Archives), you will recall that the ride to see Patrick in Biddeford was cut short because of unexpected rainfall. Although the ride was a great success, we promised we would come back and "finish the job". After exploring various options with the Denger family, it was agreed to have the "make up" ride for Patrick on Sunday, September 2nd. Fortunately, it was a glorious day with picture-perfect weather this time.

"On our own"

  Given the fact that this was a special make-up ride, deviating a bit from the scheduled monthly "Rides For Cheer", we proceeded without a police escort or arrangements for coverage at intersections. We anticipated seeing a handful of hearty BWAH riders, and were heartened to see a sizeable group of 20+ motorcycles. This created a challenge, as it was critical that the group traveled together from Kennebunk to the child's home in Biddeford. In the absence of police support, the task was made easier by incorporating the use of CB radios, with Steve up from and Dusty riding midway in the group. Such communication "in transit" allowed for a safe ride over to Biddeford, with the group staying together. Thanks Steve and Dusty!

Warm Reception and Great Ride

 We have previously referred to the Denger family as "veterans", in that BWAH has visited them a few times over the years. They received us warmly, with family and friends waiting for our arrival. After presenting the gift bag and certificate, Patrick was taken out for the BWAH parade ride. As facial expressions sometimes speak louder than words, his glowing smile said it all. It was a wonderful day!

Patrick wears his shirt proudly

  The following day, the annual Labor Day Telethon was held. The Dengers, having two boys with muscular dystrophy, were invited to WGME studios and were interviewed on TV Channel 13 as part of the local telethon programming. For those of you that caught the Denger family on television, it was a joy to see Patrick proudly wearing his BWAH tee shirt on T.V.! Thanks Patrick!