A group of Kiwis who cycled across the United States ended up raising $51,705 for Motor Neurone Disease NZ (MNDNZ).
One of the dedicated peddlers was Howick Village Association chairperson Gerald Patterson.
They were among a larger group of riders from New Zealand, the United Kingdom and US who set out on May 18 to ride from San Francisco in California to New York, a distance of 5150km over 36 days.
Motor neurone disease is the name “given to a group of closely-related disorders that affect the motor neurones”.
“Upper motor neurones run from the brain to the brainstem or spinal cord to connect with lower motor neurones,” according to Motor Neurone Disease NZ.
“Lower motor neurones then travel out to connect with the muscles for swallowing, chewing, tongue movement, facial expression, breathing, coughing, and limb movement.”
Patterson previously told the Times he was doing the ride because he enjoys cycling as well as a challenge and it’s an “opportunity to join friends in raising money to assist a very worthy cause”.
Patterson’s final update to supporters back home on July 8 says it’s hard to believe it’s been more than a fortnight since the group finished their journey by arriving into Central Park in New York City.
“The time since has been relaxing although there has been a little cycling and kayaking and quite a bit of walking.
“Nothing overly energetic, more to keep some level of activity!
“The ride had many highlights but the greatest has to be the ride into New York and Central Park on the last day.
“After ferrying from New Jersey to midtown Manhattan we were met by some riders from the New York Police Department cycling team and they, along with several motorbikes and cars, escorted us to Central Park.
“We did not have to stop at any intersections as the cars blocked the streets to give us a clear run.
“A lot of people on the pavements wondering what was happening with these cyclists in tartan riding through red traffic lights!!”
Patterson is grateful to everyone who donated to MNDNZ over the past few months.
“Your contributions are greatly appreciated by us all.
“It is pleasing to let you know we achieved our goal and raised $51,705. Our goal was $51,500.
“I enjoyed the ride, the camaraderie of the other cyclists and the support crew, and the support of you all.
“My thanks for your emails of encouragement and again, apologies for not being able to reply to each individual one.
“Not too sure what the next challenge will be. Maybe time to have a real holiday!”
