Alabama Riders Chapter 107 Ride against children's cancer

The American Legion Riders, Chapter 107 Leeds, Al. Supports Camp Smile-A-Mile
Camp Smile-A-Mile is Alabama’s program for children with cancer. Children who have cancer, their families as well as young adult survivors can attend this camp. Even children that are still taking chemotherapy can attend because they are able to receive their treatment at camp. Everyone attends free of charge. That’s why it’s so important to have fund raisers, such as the annual Camp Sam Motorcycle Ride, which we attend.This year’s ride was on Saturday, June 14. The day started out dismal and rainy and I knew that it would keep a lot of bikers away, but it didn't deter our riders. We knew, rain or shine, the campers were expecting us. The ride started at Barbers Motor Sports Park in Leeds, Al. We had a full police escort from the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department Motorcycle Unit. Although in years past there were hundreds of bikes, this year only about 50-60 bikes participated in the ride.The campers were waiting as we rode into camp. As the horns began to blow and the exhaust pipes roared to their delight, they started cheering. Eighty-one beautiful, bald, sick, and healthy children were waving banners that read “thank you bikers”. Dry eyes were scarce, as emotions flooded everyone. As we greeted the long line of campers, they gave us “high fives” as we passed out monkeys, which is Camp Sam’s mascot.We formed a huge circle and our chaplain, Terry, said a prayer. Then bikers and campers paired up to have lunch together. They enjoyed sharing their stories, dreams and were not a bit shy about telling you what their diagnosis is. Such big words’ coming from such small children is heart-wrenching. Although, I have to admit, I didn't meet one child that wasn't optimistic and they all seemed to be having the time of their lives. Of course, that’s what camp is all about.This was a very emotional time because some of the campers were neighbors and friends of our riders. Sassy, one of our riders, was tickled that she saw her “lunch buddy” from last years ride and that he remembered her. One the other hand, Lee and I didn't see ours and I was afraid to ask why she wasn't there. Many campers come back year after year, but unfortunately, some don't survive their illness to come back.After lunch most of the children headed to the bikes. As you can imagine, they had to try on gloves, helmets, hop on the bikes and rev the engines. (and rev and rev) Finally, we all gathered at the open air stage for the check presentation. The total donations for this day were $30,000.00. I am very proud to say that our riders raised $9612.00 of this total.Although Chapter 107 contributes to many different charities at the community, state and national level, we have made this our primary charity. I'd like to think that I was instrumental in this decision. You see, Camp Sam holds a special place in my heart. In 2000, my son was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. My family and I attended this camp for 6 years. This is a wonderful organization and they took care of us when I had absolutely nothing to give in return. Now it’s my turn to take care of them.Before my son got sick, I had never heard of Camp Smile- A-Mile. Fortunately, thanks to this article, you have. Don't wait until it’s your friend, your neighbor or, God forbid, your own child that gets sick. Donate now. You don't have to take my word for it. Visit their web site, www.campsam.org, and see all the fantastic things that they do.