Fair / 64° F
Hospice supporters rev their engines
Published 4:55pm Saturday, September 12, 2009The last days of Jeff Rust’s grandmother’s life were spent under the care of Lakeland Hospice.
That experience gave Rust a special reason to take part in Saturday’s Lakeland Hospice Foundation Ride.
“It’s kind of my contribution back to hospice,” Rust said.
This is the third year Rust has taken part in the event. His special duties as a road guard give him the privilege of leading the pack.
Road guards ride in the front of the group, ensuring safety measures are taken at intersections and other potentially dangerous points along the ride.
It was based on experiences with hospice that also inspired Carla Zick, a road guard, to gear up for the ride.
Zick’s mother passed away eight years ago under the care of Lakeland Hospice.
“Hospice is a great organization,” Zick said. “They’re very caring and compassionate people.”
Steve Stachowski has taken part in the ride since it began eight years ago. The chance to take part in one of his favorite pastimes, while raising money for a worthwhile organization has kept he and his wife, Diane, interested year after year.
“Hospice is a good cause,” Stachowski said. “Plus you combine that with your favorite hobby.”
Most bikers who showed up for the ride Saturday wouldn’t have done so if it wasn’t for the cause.
Judy and Mike Hein had always wanted to go on a group ride, but were waiting for the right time. This, they said, was something they could get behind.
The ride took hundreds of bikers on a journey through New York Mills and Parker’s Prairie, before returning.
