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Reflections Along The Journey

Archive for November 4th, 2009

Rise Up And Help Some Bikers

Posted by Rob under Bikers, Road Trip
Over the past 24 hours, I have been struck by the power of Social Media. Some argue that you cannot truly connect to others over Facebook or Twitter. Relationships are not “real” unless they take place in real life.
Sorry, but that’s a load of crap.
As many of you know, I spent 25 days travelling the U.S. on my Harley. During that time, I had the opportunity to meet a number of people who I had only know over Twitter. Some invited me into their homes. Some welcomed me as old friends. Connections were instant. Natural.
One of the couples I connected with, and shared about in a blog post, is Jason & Kelly (from HellCatCustoms). They are an incredible couple with beautiful kids. They are part of my “Twitter family.” They are very real friends of mine.
Yesterday, Jase was working on a bike when a wayward spark ignited some fuel. The fire quickly spread. Jase and the others were able to get out relatively unharmed. However, the garage that was being used while the shop moved locations was destroyed. Actually, the garage was part of Jason’s dad’s home. His father is now staying with relatives.
My heart was so heavy for my friends. Many others on Twitter felt that same emptiness. You can see pictures of the fire by clicking here.
Many years ago, I was the victim of a fire. The gas furnace at my house exploded, destroying much of the home. While insurance did come through, the first few weeks were pretty tough for my family. It was not an easy time.
I want to do something that I have never done online. Ever. I am asking for donations to help a biker family. Donations will be deposited in my PayPal account and forwarded directly to their account. Every penny will be sent to them. I’m sure there is a better way to set this up, but I felt that this was the quickest way to do it.
Insurance will cover some of what they’ve lost. However, a few of the bikes and all of Jase’s tools are not covered.
UPDATE: Here’s a before and after picture of Kelly’s bike, followed by a picture of Jason’s bike:
DSCF0410tinqxka
To my biker readers: this is a great way to help out a couple of members of the family.
To my church readers: this is a great way to demonstrate your generosity.
If you’d like to donate, simply click on the Donate button. You can make donations via any of the options listed.
I will start by making a $100 donation. Hope some of you will do the same.
UPDATE: So far, we have seen donations from Ontario (Canada), United Kingdom, Alaska, Wisconsin, and Oregon! Some who have given are total strangers to Jason & Kelly. They are doing it out of the kindness of their hearts.
No amount is too small. And, you don’t have to have a PayPal account. By clicking on the PayPal link, you can donate using any major credit card.

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