HUDSON – The 12th Riding for Why Me & Sherry’s House took place Sept. 11, beginning and ending at the Hudson Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 643.
This year, 180 motorcyclists along with many passengers traveled the 63-mile route to Princeton and back. Others joined them afterward for a barbecue and raffles.
Lenore and John Musorofiti organize the fundraiser in memory of their step-grandson Nicky Cremins, who died of bone cancer at age 8 in 2001.
Nicky’s family receives support from Why Me, a Worcester-based nonprofit that helps families cope with childhood cancer. Its headquarters is Sherry’s House.
Prior to the ride, Hudson Eagles President Ashley Allen welcomed participants. Vice President and acting Chaplin Pamela Chaves offered a prayer and paid tribute to those affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Nicky’s 13-year-old step-sister Anna Musorofiti recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Meg Deane sang the national anthem.
Event co-founder Lenore Musorofiti expressed gratitude to attendees during the barbecue.
“Children battling cancer and their families need the love, encouragement and assistance that you have helped to provide,” she said. “It has been Why Me’s mission since 1985 to extend their arms in comfort and support during a very difficult time. What they’ve accomplished alone is nothing compared to what they’ve accomplished with the extended Why Me community supporting them along the way.”
Next, Nicky’s mother Heather Musorofiti discussed her ongoing support from Why Me. She recently attended a Why Me bereavement group for the first time in a few years.
“I had no idea how much [Why Me] was going to help, and continue to help me and my family,” she acknowledged. “They still reach out – and I needed it more than I knew.”
Learn more about Why Me and Sherry’s House at whyme.org and facebook.com/WhyMeSherrysHouse.
