A wave of pink swept through Grand Junction on Sunday morning as the Western Slope Harley Owners Group (HOG) rallied together in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Riders sporting pink bandanas, bows, and even a pink beard gathered at the Harley-Davidson dealership, bringing awareness and emotional stories to the forefront.
The event wasn’t just a show of solidarity but a personal mission for the group. Director Dean Nelson highlighted the stark reality: “We’ve had three members diagnosed with cancer just this year.”
Community Effort Wrapped in Pink
A heartfelt moment kicked off the event when riders formed a circle to share personal stories. This wasn’t just about the ride; it was about the people they were riding for.
- One member faced a recent breast cancer diagnosis.
- Another was battling a cancerous tumor.
- A third was living with lung cancer.
“This year’s been hard,” Nelson shared with visible emotion. “It’s brought us closer as a group, and now we want to show the community it can happen to anyone.”
Sharon Grant, another participant, chimed in, saying, “Today, it’s about letting people know who we’re riding for or just showing that we care.”
Pink Motorcycles and Purposeful Miles
The energy was undeniable. Bikers weren’t just decked out in pink—they were carrying the weight of friends, family, and loved ones affected by cancer. Pink ribbons fluttered in the wind, and the sound of engines roared through the city as the group embarked on their route.
Before mounting their bikes, the group emphasized the deeper meaning of the ride. “This ride helps keep breast cancer in the spotlight,” Nelson explained. “It’s not just a statistic; it’s real people, real families.”
From Awareness Ride to Toy Drive: HOG Keeps the Spirit Alive
The energy of the event won’t fade soon. After wrapping up their awareness ride, the group is already preparing for their next major event—the 45th annual Toy Ride on December 7. The riders aim to shift gears from cancer awareness to spreading holiday cheer, proving their community spirit extends year-round.