Saturday, May 19
Images from the Road: Mike and Mike (FROM MIKE)
Mike stopped in today at the Ohio State Medical Center. He sent us this photo from his visit with fellow firefighter Michael (Mike) Ream. Mike Ream is a member of the Columbus Fire Department who was burned on duty and is receiving treatment at the center.
FIRE FIGHTER CHALLENGE: $300 from 330 Fire Stations
When "Feel the Burn 2007" was just an early idea, the Denver Fire Department donated $300 to the Feel the Burn 2007 fundraising effort for The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Following their lead, Columbia
As Mike renews his "feeling the burn" journey, he would like to challenge your Fire station to raise $300 for "Feel the Burn 2007" to help burn survivors. Help your station become a leader in this effort...begin raising $300 now doing your part to further help burn survivors today!
Will you help move the needle? Will your station contribute? Please donate to The Phoenix Society! Call them directly at 1-616-458-2773 or click below to “Donate” button on this blog to donate securely online. Thank you!
The $300 from 330 Fire Fighter Honor Roll:
- Road Sprinkler Fitters Local Union No. 669,
Fundraising Update: $10,000 Raised to Help Burn Survivors!
You have heard it from our coverage in Fire Engineering, but we wanted you to hear it from us - we are already up to $10,000 raised!
THANK YOU TO ALL who have donated. Your CONTRIBUTION IS ALREADY HELPING burn survivors across the country.
IT'S NOT TOO LATE FOR YOU TO STEP-UP. Please donate to The Phoenix Society! Call them directly at 1-616-458-2773 or click below to “Donate” button on this blog to donate securely online.
Friday, May 18
Aces and Eights
A huge part of this fundraiser now is Aces and Eights Harley-Davidson of Mason, Ohio (www.a8hd.com). Mike Keeton and Steve Miller squeezed the Firefighter Edition Harley in for service this weekend and are behind our efforts. Thanks and I'll be back in July for that Nightster 1200.
Mahalo
Mahalo
PRESS RELEASE: COLUMBUS FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON DUTY TO RECEIVE SPECIAL VISITOR AS PART OF CROSS COUNTRY RIDE FOR BURN SURVIVORS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER-(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com
SATURDAY---MAY 19th---NOON--Germantown Firefighter Mike Manning Manning is riding a Harley Davidson "Firefighters Edition" across America to raise donations and awareness for Burn Survivors. Manning who is en route to San Jose, California and will be making a special detour and stopping at The Ohio State Medical Center to visit fellow firefighter Michael Ream on Saturday, May 19th.
Mr. Ream, 36-years old and a member of the Columbus Fire Department, was burned on duty and is receiving treatment.
Originally, Firefighter Manning using a bicycle for his 3,100 mile trip called "Feel THe Burn Ride 07" but a serious injury along the way forced him to trade his two wheel bike for a Harley which is being loaned to Mike by his Chief. Although injured, Mike did not have to quit the ride and found a way to continue. Mike left from Boston on May 8th.
"It's a bit ironic, many burn survivors set out to do something in a certain way but often have to alter things--Now, I'm doing the same thing and I'm committed to finishing this ride. In a small way, I was tested like burn survivors are in their recovery. My body has limitations but I realized with support from others I can still accomplish the goal--just in a different way. They have encouraged and inspired me to go on no matter what" Manning said.
All money raised is going to the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan which is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. "Mike is just incredible..his message of hope and determination is contagious and serves as a reminder of how burn survivors often face incredible obstacles on their road to recovery but with support and resources can reach the goal of returning to life and reaching their personal goals. Mike 's journey in many ways is symbolic ---facing adversity at times but having the will to adjust and go on" said Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix-Society.
Go to Mike's own blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike call---(401) 441-7823
CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER-(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com
COLUMBUS FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON DUTY TO RECEIVE SPECIAL VISITOR AS PART OF CROSS COUNTRY RIDE FOR BURN SURVIVORS
Germantown Firefighter will visit The Ohio State University Medical Center tomorrow
Germantown Firefighter will visit The Ohio State University Medical Center tomorrow
SATURDAY---MAY 19th---NOON--Germantown Firefighter Mike Manning Manning is riding a Harley Davidson "Firefighters Edition" across America to raise donations and awareness for Burn Survivors. Manning who is en route to San Jose, California and will be making a special detour and stopping at The Ohio State Medical Center to visit fellow firefighter Michael Ream on Saturday, May 19th.
Mr. Ream, 36-years old and a member of the Columbus Fire Department, was burned on duty and is receiving treatment.
Originally, Firefighter Manning using a bicycle for his 3,100 mile trip called "Feel THe Burn Ride 07" but a serious injury along the way forced him to trade his two wheel bike for a Harley which is being loaned to Mike by his Chief. Although injured, Mike did not have to quit the ride and found a way to continue. Mike left from Boston on May 8th.
"It's a bit ironic, many burn survivors set out to do something in a certain way but often have to alter things--Now, I'm doing the same thing and I'm committed to finishing this ride. In a small way, I was tested like burn survivors are in their recovery. My body has limitations but I realized with support from others I can still accomplish the goal--just in a different way. They have encouraged and inspired me to go on no matter what" Manning said.
All money raised is going to the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan which is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. "Mike is just incredible..his message of hope and determination is contagious and serves as a reminder of how burn survivors often face incredible obstacles on their road to recovery but with support and resources can reach the goal of returning to life and reaching their personal goals. Mike 's journey in many ways is symbolic ---facing adversity at times but having the will to adjust and go on" said Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix-Society.
Go to Mike's own blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike call---(401) 441-7823
"THE" Bike: Chief Anding's 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition
As Mike posted late Wednesday evening, despite a leg injury and saddle sores, Mike is continuing his journey feeling the burn across this great country of ours and raising $100,000 for Burn Survivors.
Thanks to Germantown Fire Chief, Chief Anding, Mike is going to be riding in style to San Jose on his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition! We just had to share the photo of the bike and Chief Anding.
Remember, Mike will be riding into Germantown TOMORROW at 5PM!
For anyone who can make it, please show up at the Germantown fire station at 75 North Walnut street. If you are a burn survivor, Mike and the team would like you to sign the Harley Mike is riding for good luck. Also, Germantown’s Mayor will present Mike with a special citation for all his efforts.
We will be posting and updated schedule for the rest of his ride shortly.
Thanks to Germantown Fire Chief, Chief Anding, Mike is going to be riding in style to San Jose on his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition! We just had to share the photo of the bike and Chief Anding.
Remember, Mike will be riding into Germantown TOMORROW at 5PM!
For anyone who can make it, please show up at the Germantown fire station at 75 North Walnut street. If you are a burn survivor, Mike and the team would like you to sign the Harley Mike is riding for good luck. Also, Germantown’s Mayor will present Mike with a special citation for all his efforts.
We will be posting and updated schedule for the rest of his ride shortly.
Wednesday, May 16
PRESS RELEASE: GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON TREK BUT VOWS TO CONTINUE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER—(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com
GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON TREK BUT VOWS TO CONTINUE
Fire Chief Steps In/Welcoming Party Planned
SATURDAY---MAY 19th 5PM—-Germantown Firefighter Mike Manning Manning doesn’t know the word QUIT. Despite a serious injury brought on by bicycling hundreds of miles—-Mike is continuing his quest to travel 3,100 miles across America to raise money and awareness for burn survivors.
Because of the injury, which would have put Mike at risk if he continued, Mike is now trading his bike for a different kind of bike.
The Chief of the Germantown Fire Department is loaning Mike his own 2003 Harley Davidson “Firefighters Limited Edition” so he can finish his trek and meet his goal of raising $100,000. Mike was scheduled to come back through his hometown this weekend as part of the ride schedule.
The ride is called “Feel the Burn 07”. It is designed to help raise awareness and financial support for the tremendous efforts that go into supporting burn survivors from first responders including firefighters and medical teams to aftercare resources and peer support groups.
Mike left from Boston on May 8th and will end in San Jose, California.
“It’s a bit ironic, many burn survivors set out to do something in a certain way but often have to alter things—-Now, I’m doing the same thing and I’m committed to finishing this ride. In a small way, I was tested like burn survivors are in their recovery. My body has limitations but I realized with support from others I can still accomplish the goal--just in a different way. They have encouraged and inspired me to go on no matter what" Manning said.
All money raised is going to the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan which is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. “Mike is just incredible..his message of hope and determination is contagious and serves as a reminder of how burn survivors often face incredible obstacles on their road to recovery but with support and resources can reach the goal of returning to life and reaching their personal goals. Mike 's journey in many ways is symbolic —--facing adversity at times but having the will to adjust and go on” said Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix-Society.
Mike’s “Welcome back to Germantown” event at his fire station at 75 North Walnut street will include “thank you’s” from burn survivors to Mike and a chance for the public to sign the Harley Mike is riding for good luck. Also, Germantown’s Mayor will present Mike with a special citation for all his efforts.
Go to Mike’s own blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike call---(401) 441-7823
Mike's arrival is scheduled for 5pm.
###
There's always an answer
Let me first thank Chief Kim Jennings for letting me stay at his home Monday night, as well as feeding me, which isn't easy.:-) The Canton FD led me out of town under lights, to be joined by Alba FD, and then Mansfield FD Firefighter Jerry led me into Mansfield and bought me lunch. Thank you for the escort, it was a great mental break to just "ride" and not be listening for 18 wheelers approaching.
After leaving Mansfield in hot temperatures and a 22 mph headwind my body began to reach its breaking point. A saddle sore (http://www.liquicell.com/assets/pdf/Saddle%20Sores%20(P.%20Kortebein).pdf) I had been nursing for 2 days finally became to much to overcome. I pushed and pushed, chewing aspiring and taking breaks. It felt like a lighter was being held under my seat, no matter if I was standing or sitting. I continued riding, tears rolling down my face from the pain, both emotional as well as physical. My legs were strong but it didn't matter. I could not pedal anymore and knew it would be at least a week before I could ride again, and knew it would just come right back in a few days of hot riding.
Selfishly, I wondered for a brief moment if this fundraiser was the biggest mistake of my life. Then I said, "No, that's ridiculous." You can either lead a safe life or an authentic one. You gotta bet big to win big, but you may also lose big. I figured the awareness that needs to be raised for the burn community is worth this gamble, I don't have any pride that can be harmed or ego that can be bruised. It's all or nothing.
I crawled off of my bike and sat on the side of Rt. 6 under the scorching sun weeping for all of the people I felt I was letting down. My sincere hopes of this ride were not to be via the way I had planned and trained for 4 months. The faces of everyone who signed my bike, people who called me on this journey, those who have donated, and supported me were in my mind and I felt terrible, vulnerable. I felt like I was the lowest person on earth. I felt like a fraud. I called my wife crying and apologized to her for this perceived failure. I then called Amy, Jeff, and Kahty apologizing, sobbing, and distraught. I have always accomplished what I have set my mind to do. Whether it be 62 college credits in 10 months, working full time and getting my A + P licence for 2 years while sleeping 4-5 hours a night, moving my house and driving to Texas non-stop all in 42 hours, or teaching myself how to use an English wheel to do an aircraft repair that no one else wanted to do on a time sensitive aircraft. Until now, if I wanted to see it done, I could do it, and no one could tell me otherwise. Well, we all have to change sometime.
A branch must bend with wind so it won't break, and so I must bend with this headwind I am facing. I cannot ride my bike. It hurts too much and in another day or two I would have a heinous infection. So, here is how I must change to make sure this ride continues and the goal of this fundraiser is met:
I must ask for and accept the offered help of others. This started when I called the Coudersport FD chief Andy to come pick me up 50 miles from his station. He is a saint and sent his son Cecil to come get me. Thank you. I have never truly needed the help of others until 3 pm on May 15, 2007. I was immobile and in the middle of nowhere. They fed me a great speghetti dinner and then gave me hotel money so my wife and I could get some sleep when she came to pick me up later in the night. We decided to drive home anyway and I am mailing your money back to you, thank you all for your generosity.
I have always been my hardest critic to the point of perfection. I realized that being angry at myself and my body was not going to bring me closer to this heartfelt mission I need to complete for the benefit of others. I don't care one iota what people think of me in this fundraiser, it has and always will be for the burn survivors. My pride and ego are no where near the equation so I needed to find a way to get to San Jose in a reasonable timeframe. I decided my only option was to ride my Suzuki motorcycle to San Jose. Not as dramatic but sincere nonetheless. If the media doesn't like it they can take a hike, I'm not concerned with uplifting you, I appreciate your coverage but this is not for you. This is for Bruce, Amy, George, Jesse, Hope, Jose, Faith, Joe, and for all burn survivors out there.
I saw my Fire Chief this AM after arriving home late, I humbly broke the news of my injury and my new plan. He immediately insisted I take his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition to San Jose instead. After debating this offer I decided it was safer and more fitting to what we are trying to do here. Thank you Chief Anding. As I was standing in his barn debating my decision, I realized that many people I have known over the years have offered to help me and then puilled the rug out from under me, leaving me skeptical of most people and their intentions. Effectively enabling my innate personality characteristics to make myself an emotional island, free from most pain but experiencing little pleasure as well. I have never let anyone "in" besides my wife, she is the only one who has always stood with me and never screwed me over. Thank you Chief Scott for helping me grow and complete this mission.
That being said, I am in uncharted territory for Mike Manning tonight. I am accepting the help of others and trusting them in the process. I am allowing myself to depend on others. I understand now that in this short journey, as well as the jouney that we call life, we must enlist a team of people to help us live, survive, and enjoy our brief time here on earth.
Good night all and I'll resume the ride on Tuesday AM.
Again, all are welcome to ride with me. I know there are a lot more motorcyclists than cyclists out there. C'mon, help me make lemonade out lemons and show our support, both in motorcycles and in fundraising dollars.
Love to you all, I hope you are still behind this, I sure as hell am,
Mike
After leaving Mansfield in hot temperatures and a 22 mph headwind my body began to reach its breaking point. A saddle sore (http://www.liquicell.com/assets/pdf/Saddle%20Sores%20(P.%20Kortebein).pdf) I had been nursing for 2 days finally became to much to overcome. I pushed and pushed, chewing aspiring and taking breaks. It felt like a lighter was being held under my seat, no matter if I was standing or sitting. I continued riding, tears rolling down my face from the pain, both emotional as well as physical. My legs were strong but it didn't matter. I could not pedal anymore and knew it would be at least a week before I could ride again, and knew it would just come right back in a few days of hot riding.
Selfishly, I wondered for a brief moment if this fundraiser was the biggest mistake of my life. Then I said, "No, that's ridiculous." You can either lead a safe life or an authentic one. You gotta bet big to win big, but you may also lose big. I figured the awareness that needs to be raised for the burn community is worth this gamble, I don't have any pride that can be harmed or ego that can be bruised. It's all or nothing.
I crawled off of my bike and sat on the side of Rt. 6 under the scorching sun weeping for all of the people I felt I was letting down. My sincere hopes of this ride were not to be via the way I had planned and trained for 4 months. The faces of everyone who signed my bike, people who called me on this journey, those who have donated, and supported me were in my mind and I felt terrible, vulnerable. I felt like I was the lowest person on earth. I felt like a fraud. I called my wife crying and apologized to her for this perceived failure. I then called Amy, Jeff, and Kahty apologizing, sobbing, and distraught. I have always accomplished what I have set my mind to do. Whether it be 62 college credits in 10 months, working full time and getting my A + P licence for 2 years while sleeping 4-5 hours a night, moving my house and driving to Texas non-stop all in 42 hours, or teaching myself how to use an English wheel to do an aircraft repair that no one else wanted to do on a time sensitive aircraft. Until now, if I wanted to see it done, I could do it, and no one could tell me otherwise. Well, we all have to change sometime.
A branch must bend with wind so it won't break, and so I must bend with this headwind I am facing. I cannot ride my bike. It hurts too much and in another day or two I would have a heinous infection. So, here is how I must change to make sure this ride continues and the goal of this fundraiser is met:
I must ask for and accept the offered help of others. This started when I called the Coudersport FD chief Andy to come pick me up 50 miles from his station. He is a saint and sent his son Cecil to come get me. Thank you. I have never truly needed the help of others until 3 pm on May 15, 2007. I was immobile and in the middle of nowhere. They fed me a great speghetti dinner and then gave me hotel money so my wife and I could get some sleep when she came to pick me up later in the night. We decided to drive home anyway and I am mailing your money back to you, thank you all for your generosity.
I have always been my hardest critic to the point of perfection. I realized that being angry at myself and my body was not going to bring me closer to this heartfelt mission I need to complete for the benefit of others. I don't care one iota what people think of me in this fundraiser, it has and always will be for the burn survivors. My pride and ego are no where near the equation so I needed to find a way to get to San Jose in a reasonable timeframe. I decided my only option was to ride my Suzuki motorcycle to San Jose. Not as dramatic but sincere nonetheless. If the media doesn't like it they can take a hike, I'm not concerned with uplifting you, I appreciate your coverage but this is not for you. This is for Bruce, Amy, George, Jesse, Hope, Jose, Faith, Joe, and for all burn survivors out there.
I saw my Fire Chief this AM after arriving home late, I humbly broke the news of my injury and my new plan. He immediately insisted I take his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition to San Jose instead. After debating this offer I decided it was safer and more fitting to what we are trying to do here. Thank you Chief Anding. As I was standing in his barn debating my decision, I realized that many people I have known over the years have offered to help me and then puilled the rug out from under me, leaving me skeptical of most people and their intentions. Effectively enabling my innate personality characteristics to make myself an emotional island, free from most pain but experiencing little pleasure as well. I have never let anyone "in" besides my wife, she is the only one who has always stood with me and never screwed me over. Thank you Chief Scott for helping me grow and complete this mission.
That being said, I am in uncharted territory for Mike Manning tonight. I am accepting the help of others and trusting them in the process. I am allowing myself to depend on others. I understand now that in this short journey, as well as the jouney that we call life, we must enlist a team of people to help us live, survive, and enjoy our brief time here on earth.
Good night all and I'll resume the ride on Tuesday AM.
Again, all are welcome to ride with me. I know there are a lot more motorcyclists than cyclists out there. C'mon, help me make lemonade out lemons and show our support, both in motorcycles and in fundraising dollars.
Love to you all, I hope you are still behind this, I sure as hell am,
Mike
Tuesday, May 15
Another Injury :-(
Folks,
We just got another call from Mike. He is injured again/the first injury didn't quite heal. Mike is looking at his options right now on how best to manage this.
Stand By.
Mike we are VERY proud of you. Hang in there!
We just got another call from Mike. He is injured again/the first injury didn't quite heal. Mike is looking at his options right now on how best to manage this.
Stand By.
Mike we are VERY proud of you. Hang in there!
Images from the Road (FROM MIKE)
Mike just found a small patch of wireless connectivity. He just sent us these photo's from his cell phone that he took yesterday.
We don't know who is who or where the big long hill is at this point - so we will need to wait to hear from Mike the details of these great photo's!
We don't know who is who or where the big long hill is at this point - so we will need to wait to hear from Mike the details of these great photo's!
PRESS RELEASE: GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER ON CROSS COUNTRY BICYLE RIDE STOPS HOME FOR SUPPORT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER—(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com
SATURDAY---MAY 19th----Germantown, Ohio Firefighter Mike Manning is making a stop at his hometown fire station ON MAY 19TH as he makes his way across America on his bicycle trek. Manning is biking from Boston to San Jose, California to raise funding for burn survivors. Manning left from Boston on May 8th beginning his 3,100 mile journey.
The ride is called “Feel the Burn 07”. It is designed to help raise awareness and financial support for the tremendous efforts that go into supporting burn survivors from first responders including firefighters and medical teams to aftercare resources and peer support groups.
Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000. When he left Boston, by the time he was out of the city limits, donations had already reached nearly $10,000. All the money raised is going to The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The trip has not been without challenges. In just his second day on the road, Mike had to deal with a broke bike and an injured leg. But after one day of rest, Mike is back on the road and feeling pumped about crossing the finish line at a burn center in California on or about June 22nd. “The
support so far has been overwhelming---I’m hopeful people will support this cause as much as possible so I can reach our goal of raising $100,000” Manning said. “I’m so excited to be circling through my hometown and seeing my fellow firefighters and to tell them about my journey so far”.
The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. It’s goal is to advance recovery resources and provide experiences to help burn survivors renew their spirit and return to life. “Mike’s efforts will do so much for the entire burn community and help us fund programs like attending World Burn Congress which is an invaluable resource and gathering event held every year for survivors” said Phoenix-Society Executive Director Amy Acton.
Also, Germantown Mayor Ted Landis will also welcome Mike at the fire station and present with him with a special award for all of his efforts.
Mike’s “Welcome back to Germantown” event at his fire station at 75 North Walnut street will include “thank you’s” from burn survivors to Mike and a chance for the public to sign Mike’s bike for good luck. In addition, Ohio burn center representatives will be on hand to discuss why this ride is so crucial.
Go to Mike’s own blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike or to get more information on this “Welcome Back to Germantown” event—call---(401) 441-7823
Mike's arrivial is scheduled for 5pm.
CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER—(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com
GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER ON CROSS COUNTRY BICYLE RIDE STOPS HOME FOR SUPPORT
A welcoming party at the Germantown Fire Department he serves is planned
A welcoming party at the Germantown Fire Department he serves is planned
SATURDAY---MAY 19th----Germantown, Ohio Firefighter Mike Manning is making a stop at his hometown fire station ON MAY 19TH as he makes his way across America on his bicycle trek. Manning is biking from Boston to San Jose, California to raise funding for burn survivors. Manning left from Boston on May 8th beginning his 3,100 mile journey.
The ride is called “Feel the Burn 07”. It is designed to help raise awareness and financial support for the tremendous efforts that go into supporting burn survivors from first responders including firefighters and medical teams to aftercare resources and peer support groups.
Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000. When he left Boston, by the time he was out of the city limits, donations had already reached nearly $10,000. All the money raised is going to The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The trip has not been without challenges. In just his second day on the road, Mike had to deal with a broke bike and an injured leg. But after one day of rest, Mike is back on the road and feeling pumped about crossing the finish line at a burn center in California on or about June 22nd. “The
support so far has been overwhelming---I’m hopeful people will support this cause as much as possible so I can reach our goal of raising $100,000” Manning said. “I’m so excited to be circling through my hometown and seeing my fellow firefighters and to tell them about my journey so far”.
The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. It’s goal is to advance recovery resources and provide experiences to help burn survivors renew their spirit and return to life. “Mike’s efforts will do so much for the entire burn community and help us fund programs like attending World Burn Congress which is an invaluable resource and gathering event held every year for survivors” said Phoenix-Society Executive Director Amy Acton.
Also, Germantown Mayor Ted Landis will also welcome Mike at the fire station and present with him with a special award for all of his efforts.
Mike’s “Welcome back to Germantown” event at his fire station at 75 North Walnut street will include “thank you’s” from burn survivors to Mike and a chance for the public to sign Mike’s bike for good luck. In addition, Ohio burn center representatives will be on hand to discuss why this ride is so crucial.
Go to Mike’s own blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike or to get more information on this “Welcome Back to Germantown” event—call---(401) 441-7823
Mike's arrivial is scheduled for 5pm.
Schedule Update: Mike is Bound and Determined to Get to Germantown on the 19th!
Good Morning Everyone:
Well, as of this writing, we do not know exactly how Mike will do it. But, he has told us he wants to be in Germantown on the 19th of May. This will involve not having a rest day and probably adjusting his route. As we get the particulars, we will let everyone know.
Thanks for all the comments and encouragement for Mike!
Well, as of this writing, we do not know exactly how Mike will do it. But, he has told us he wants to be in Germantown on the 19th of May. This will involve not having a rest day and probably adjusting his route. As we get the particulars, we will let everyone know.
Thanks for all the comments and encouragement for Mike!
Monday, May 14
Voodoo Child
Well, I was chopping down mountains today. Felt strong after a few miles, my body did not want to get out of bed today. After leaving Dalton's mid 30 degree temps I was on PA 87 most of the day. Today was the hardest day I've ever had in my 21 years of road cycling. Steep hills up to 2 miles long kept coming and coming, as well as logging trucks and old roads. This is some of the most beautiful part of the US that I have seen. High rounded emerald mountains with farms and red farmhouses, crystal clear rivers and streams, deer, and birds.With the wind in my face I brought myself closer to San Jose one crank at a time.
I stopped briefly in Dushore (halfway between Dalton and Canton) today and got a tour of their fire station by Lou. They have one truck that still uses wooden ground ladders, cool. The local paper did a small piece on me and the owner of the paper, Ron, bought me a great lunch at Pam's Restaurant.
Note to cyclists: PA 87 has a no leash law. I was actively chased by 6 dogs today (I have only been chased by 5 dogs total in all my years), whattayagonnado?
I have not had cell phone service for most of the day including where I am now in Canton so pics will have to wait, I'm told to expect the same service tomorrow. Chief Kim Jennings and the Canton FD escorted me into town about an hour ago and the Jennings family had generously opened their home to me. Canton is celebrating their 125th year of fire service and has refurbished their old fire bell as well as their old 1920's LaFrance fire truck. Both newspapers in town interviewed me upon arrival and Kim's wife is making speghetti tonight.
I hope this post finds everyone well and thanks for checking in. Till tomorrow....
Hi to all of the kids at Boston Shriners Hospital, keep smiling.:-)
-Mike
I stopped briefly in Dushore (halfway between Dalton and Canton) today and got a tour of their fire station by Lou. They have one truck that still uses wooden ground ladders, cool. The local paper did a small piece on me and the owner of the paper, Ron, bought me a great lunch at Pam's Restaurant.
Note to cyclists: PA 87 has a no leash law. I was actively chased by 6 dogs today (I have only been chased by 5 dogs total in all my years), whattayagonnado?
I have not had cell phone service for most of the day including where I am now in Canton so pics will have to wait, I'm told to expect the same service tomorrow. Chief Kim Jennings and the Canton FD escorted me into town about an hour ago and the Jennings family had generously opened their home to me. Canton is celebrating their 125th year of fire service and has refurbished their old fire bell as well as their old 1920's LaFrance fire truck. Both newspapers in town interviewed me upon arrival and Kim's wife is making speghetti tonight.
I hope this post finds everyone well and thanks for checking in. Till tomorrow....
Hi to all of the kids at Boston Shriners Hospital, keep smiling.:-)
-Mike
Sunday, May 13
This one's for you Bruce!
Dalton, PA! Made it after 11 grueling hours on the bike today. Restaurants were gone after the Port Jarvis area, so it was gas station food and Gatorade until I got to Dalton. Chief Bob, his wife Nancy, and their daughter Tammy have let me sleep in their 1800's farmhouse tonight. What a generous family.
Dalton FD has a '71 La France, the kind I learned to first operate and drive as a young FF. Brought back memories when I sat in the open cab. They also have a Seagrave ladder and an International tanker w/ pump and roll, and a front bumper mounted pump panel.
I dedicate every pedal stroke today to my friend Bruce, a burn survivor who called me over the weekend. Bruce became a burn survivor in a town I went through today. I went over two extra big hills to take a picture of the intersection where Bruce rose from the ashes. Thank you Bruce for your inspiring and supportive words which pulled me through some tough climbs today. See you in San Jose my friend.
I'm absolutely exhausted. The wind was blustery and in my face all day. I was pedaling hard on some downhills and barely made it over 13mph. I'm slamming aspirin and going to bed in a minute. Good night and Happy Mothers Day.
P.S.:I would also like to express my love and thanks to my lovely wife, whom I miss very much. She has made me who I am today and has supported everything I've ever wanted to do, even after all the shenanigans that can sometimes follow. She is the perfect girl for me and makes me happy. I hope I bring her the same joy she brings to my life.
Dalton FD has a '71 La France, the kind I learned to first operate and drive as a young FF. Brought back memories when I sat in the open cab. They also have a Seagrave ladder and an International tanker w/ pump and roll, and a front bumper mounted pump panel.
I dedicate every pedal stroke today to my friend Bruce, a burn survivor who called me over the weekend. Bruce became a burn survivor in a town I went through today. I went over two extra big hills to take a picture of the intersection where Bruce rose from the ashes. Thank you Bruce for your inspiring and supportive words which pulled me through some tough climbs today. See you in San Jose my friend.
I'm absolutely exhausted. The wind was blustery and in my face all day. I was pedaling hard on some downhills and barely made it over 13mph. I'm slamming aspirin and going to bed in a minute. Good night and Happy Mothers Day.
P.S.:I would also like to express my love and thanks to my lovely wife, whom I miss very much. She has made me who I am today and has supported everything I've ever wanted to do, even after all the shenanigans that can sometimes follow. She is the perfect girl for me and makes me happy. I hope I bring her the same joy she brings to my life.
Images From the Road: Bloomberg, NY to Dalton, PA (FROM MIKE)
Happy Mother's Day Everyone!
This one came in around 7:30AM
4PM
4:45 - DALTON!
Here are two images Mike sent from his ride going from Bloomingburg, NY to Dalton, PA.
This one came in around 7:30AM
This one came in around 9:30AM with a note that he was entering PA
4PM
4:45 - DALTON!
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