Ride for Kids®

benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation®

We ride to cure the kids!

Jacksonville motorcyclists braved rain at their fourth Ride for Kids® event, coming out in spite of the weather to bring $23,986 in donations.

After a ride through the countryside north of the city, they returned to Florida State College to hear brain tumor survivors Brycen, Megan, Haley, Stefan, and William talk about their lives.

“I thank everyone for coming out and helping today,” said Stefan. Riders were also inspired by 5-year-old Megan’s mother, Brandi, who said, “To the day I die I will keep fighting so we can find a cure.”

That fight helps researchers like Dr. Daniel Indelicato of the University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute, who pointed out another benefit of the event. “This ride provides the emotional support for the families,” he reminded the crowd.  

Every penny raised makes a difference to children fighting brain tumors. In Jacksonville, the leading fundraisers were:

• Individuals: Ted & Julie Batchelder, $4,013
• Motorcycle club/chapter: GWRRA FL-1V, $7,275
• Non-motorcycle group: Stephanie Gilmore Memorial, $4,013
• Motorcycle business: Honda of Jacksonville, $6,620

Donated Ride for Kids® drawing prizes went to Leevon White (Honda motorcycle); Billy Starling (AGV helmet); Gary Pickle (Dunlop tire); Bill Darnell (Tourmaster luggage); and Linda Walser (Cardo Scala Rider).

The local task force worked hard all year to make this ride happen. Special thanks to Charlie and Donna Jackson, Dave and Lee Howell, Tom and Sharon Wiltfang, Bill Darnell, Chris Thacker, and the rest of the volunteer team.