The first annual Aidan’s Ride Sturgis, a charity motorcycle ride organized to fight ALD, will take place August 6, 2015, during the 75th anniversary of the iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Rally®. It will consist of a 75-mile ride around Bear Butte that ends at the Buffalo Chip Crossroads with a catered brunch. You can register online here
Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is an inherited x-linked genetic disease that affects all neurological functions and reduces those afflicted with it to a vegetative state that persists until death. Aidan Jack Seeger was just six years old when he was diagnosed with ALD in 2011. He succumbed to the disease in April of 2012. Had he been diagnosed at birth, he could have undergone treatment that would have arrested the disease and allowed him to live a full life.
Held to benefit the Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation, which was established in Aidan’s honor, Aidan’s Ride Sturgis seeks to raise funds for the purpose of helping families with children diagnosed with Adrenoleukodystrophy, heightening awareness about ALD and pushing for legislation in every state that mandates screening of newborns for the disease.
Currently, New York is the only one of the United States to screen for ALD, thanks to Aidan’s Law, passed by the state legislature in the wake of Aidan’s tragic and untimely death. As of June 15, 2015, 340,000 newborns have been screened in New York and 32 babies have tested positive for the disease. Thanks to early detection, these children are undergoing treatment that will allow them to live full lives.
The cost for Aidan’s Ride Sturgis is just $50 and includes participation in the 75-mile ride, a full catered brunch at the end of it, non-alcoholic beverages and limited edition pin and patch. The ride is made possible by generous support from Metzeler Tires, Hot Leathers, The Buffalo Chip and Indian Larry Motorcycles.