Night Hawks Surprise 14-year-old Patient With Motorcycle Ride
On Sunday, August 30, 2009 the Huron Valley Night Hawks M.C. from Ypsilanti, MI joined forces with the Scleroderma Foundation Michigan Chapter for the first annual motorcycle charity ride. Even though the temperatures were in the 60’s bikers from several communities showed their support by participating in the ride.
The morning began with coffee and donuts and bikers gathering to share stories of their other rides and recent updates of their bikes.
The hosts of the event, the Huron Valley Night Hawks M.C. were able to meet a very special guest in 14 year old scleroderma patient, Brittney Burke. Brittney came with the intention to cheer on the group and thank them for putting on the event. Within minutes of arriving, members of the Night Hawks had her outfitted in warm biker clothing and on the back of a bike ready to ride. Her smile told the  rest, she was indeed excited and thrilled for the unique opportunity.
After a five mile ride Brittney returned to the clubhouse and the official ride was about to begin. “Traveling Man,” a Night Hawk member offered for Brittney to join him on his 2008 Harley Davidson bike equipped with sheep skin seats. This was truly an offer she could not pass up! Her mom, Michelle was given an offer by the club President, “Hammer” to join him on the back of his Harley and she echoed the same excitement as her daughter as she was given a leather jacket and sunglasses to wear.
With everyone on their bikes the engines roared and the roads were cleared for the bikers to start their 90 mile trip. The sun started to shine and off they went down the narrow road to the first stop which was Hell, MI a very popular stop for bikers in Michigan.
The stop in Hell, MI provided bikers and those who followed along in their cars a chance to have lunch and visit some more. Brittney’s smile never stopped as she informed Executive Director Laura Dyas and her husband Steve all about the mechanics of Traveling Man’s bike and about how much it had cost. Her enthusiasm soared with each sentence and each bite of her hot dog. As soon as she finished she glanced around eager to get back on the bike and keep going.
After a 45 minute stop, bikers started their bikes up again and road to the town of South Lyon, MI. The roads were curvy and tree filled. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and whether you were on a bike or in a car the trip was fascinating. Seeing the line of bikers going two by two and watching as they passed other bikers holding their hands out in a show of respect was surely something to view. At one stop for gasoline club President Hammer noted that other bikers were asking what the ride was for and remarking that they had not heard of scleroderma. The awareness was increasing with each mile the bikers traveled.
Once the group arrived in South Lyon everyone had the chance to have a beverage or more food at the Old Historical Inn. The woodwork in the Inn was incredible and from the smells and sites the food was equally promising. Bikers and staff sat around sharing life stories and Brittney took it all in just enjoying every minute. Every time someone would ask her if she was tired she would simply smile bigger and shake her head. She was clearly having the time of her life and taking it all in.
After another 45 minute stop bikers started up their bikes and headed back to the clubhouse for a dinner of lasagna prepared by the Night Hawks. For those who were still hungry a feast was had. For the others, a bonfire was shimmering behind the club house.
During the awards ceremony, Brittney was given the plaque for the Best Passenger. Club members asked her to select the bike that would be given the plaque for Best Bike. As she walked among the bikes she smiled as she pointed to Traveling Man’s bike and announced his was the best. He of course laughed telling the group he was sure she would have picked his. Best Rider went to Jason Knurek a non member of the Night Hawks and Michigan Chapter supporter.
After the awards ceremony, the members of the Night Hawks spent time getting to know Brittney and her mom better. They learned more about her struggle with scleroderma and her medical challenges. Hacker, a Night Hawks member remarked, “I now have a new definition of courage and Brittney is it. I feel honored to have spent time with her and I will never forget her the rest of my life.”
The Night Hawks made the decision to take Brittney school clothes shopping. They also have plans to meet her on her first day of high school and to take her out to celebrate that milestone. To them she is now an honorary Lady Night, something Brittney thinks is very cool.
The Michigan Chapter is so grateful to the Night Hawks for reaching out and touching the lives of so many people with scleroderma. The awareness that was raised during this charity ride was amazing and both the Michigan Chapter and the Night Hawks are looking forward to next year’s ride.
See more photos at our Facebook Page
For more information about the 2010 ride please contact the office at (248) 865-7259. You can also keep checking the website for updates. |
