Knoxville Ride for Kids

On July 29th I rode in the Knoxville "Ride for Kids" to benefit the Pediatric Brain Tumor Association. I hadn't really thought about it, but I had never ridden in a large charity ride before. I had heard about this event from several people, and it sounded like a good time, and a fun way to support a great cause. It turns out that a bunch of people I know showed up to ride. It started and ended at Pellissippi State's main campus. The ride was a 36 mile loop that went through Hardin Valley, and looped back through Oak Ridge.
This event was extremely well organized, and went off without a hitch (at least that I could see). We even had a police escort that made sure we didn't have to stop, so the whole group was able to stay together. I have to admit, rolling through the red lights and intersections was pretty cool.
What was incredible about this ride was the finish. After lunch, before they acknowledged the donations and money raised from different clubs and individuals, they had several kids who have survived brain tumors, or who are currently going through treatment, take the stage. It was incredibly touching to hear them tell their own story about what they have endured, and how well they are doing, thanks to new treatments and research that rides such as this support. Some of the lucky kids got to be passengers on the back of someones bike or in one of the sidecar rigs.

 

This is one event that I will definitely put on my calender for next year. It was a fun day that  made you appreciate all you have in life, and want to do more to help others who have some real challenges.