On Thunder roads: Harley ride transforms mild-mannered reporter

Posted on June 24 at 11:38 a.m. ( Suggest removal )

Hi there Catherine-

I just wanted to write and thank you for writing such a fun article about the MDA Tub Run. It was really neat to get your perspective.

I have had the privilege of working on this event with the Tub Run planning committee and Kutter Harley-Davidson for the last ten years. They are an amazing group of people and each year I am inspired and thankful for the tremendous support we receive from the community. From the corporate sponsors, volunteers, local law enforcement to those folks who find themselves sitting in lawn chairs waiting for the ride to pass by-it is a huge network of people who come together to make a real difference in the lives of families in Southwestern Wisconsin who count on our services. It’s also an amazing testament to the character and strength of the greater Janesville area community.

While I haven’t had the chance to ride the ride because I’m working behind the scenes I have definitely embraced my inner biker and gone through my own “transformation.” I went to my first HOG chapter meeting in a sweater set and pearls, now my closet is full of Harley gear. I love checking out the impressive chrome and color that makes a bike unique and I’ve also come to welcome the sound of that distinctive rumble of a Harley-Davidson. I hear it and smile and usually turn my head to see if it happens to be one of the many friends I’ve met along the way.

Harley-Davidson has been supporting MDA since 1980 and in that time so many of the individuals and families we serve have also embraced their inner biker because they’ve learned a lesson that comes quick when you start to hang out with Harley riders. You learn that Harley enthusiasts are some of the most kind-hearted, giving and caring individuals you’ll ever know. You’re welcomed in an instant and you become part of this amazing family of people with a common thread.

People that come out to ride in the Tub Run come out because they share a passion for experiencing the open road, taking in an amazing ride and sharing time with friends. That passion over the years has been extended into their hearts with a desire to make a difference in the lives of those affected by neuromuscular disease and we are truly grateful for this.

Your article reminds us all to remember to have fun and as you alluded to, even better if you get to help a worthwhile cause while doing it.

Thanks so much to you and the entire staff at the Janesville Gazette for helping share the story of the ride and raising awareness about MDA and the services we provide. Thanks also to everyone who supported the event, it is greatly appreciated.

Cathy Stagmer
MDA Regional Field Representative