Thunder Ride’s Mission and History
For the past 22 years, motorcycle riders, community members and local businesses have helped make life a lot better for families battling T1D. Together, in 2024, we raised $50,501, helping to provide gap funding to families for supplies and treatment who simply cannot afford the basic necessities to care for their child battling T1D. “We ride for the day when Juvenile Diabetes is no longer the reason why.”
Who’s Involved and Why
“Dave & Barb Erickson, along with Al Lueck have been involved with the planning of the event since the very beginning. We also have many attendees who have been coming since the very beginning. What keeps them coming back I feel is easy; it’s the community comradery. Seeing so many people get together and give to a cause that may not even affect them directly is remarkable and everything you can ask for from the human kind.”
Personal Stories
A Family Helped by Thunder Ride
“When Joey was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes over five years ago, we left the hospital with a bill for over $800 in supplies and medications just to get him started on this new journey called diabetes. I don’t think that most people are aware of just how much diabetes costs a patient. The news talks about insulin costs, but there is also the cost of continuous glucose monitors, needles, charp kits, glucagon, pumps, test strips and meters, and more. We were shocked by the cost of having this disease. Fast forward five years and we now have another child with T1D. Two kids with type one diabetes takes a toll on a family’s finances. I am so appreciative of the help that the Thunder Ride event has provided for us since our first child was diagnosed with diabetes. Besides the financial assistance, I feel great appreciation of how the Thunder Ride raises awareness of childhood diabetes and the prevalence of it in our community. Our community is incredibly lucky to have this type of assistance.”
Standout Rider and Volunteer
“Al Lueck and his family have always been staunch supporters of the Thunder Ride for Juvenile Diabetes since the very beginning. Every year, Al donates his time putting out signs, raising support and sponsorships, checking the annual route to ensure it is safe for our attendees and leading the ride to ensure our riders stay safe the day of. Al does this because he loves to ride and loves the cause and his community. Look for Al on this year’s ride!”
Memorable Moment
“We believe the most memorable moment every year is watching all of the attendees ride away from Rod’s Ride On Powersports at the beginning of the event. It truly is remarkable to see the people come out in droves for community members with T1D they may never met, but care the world about.”
Testimonials
“We truly appreciate your generosity in helping us again with Dawson’s diabetic supplies. It is such a blessing to have your organization in our area and we cannot thank you enough for the grant!”
“Dear Thunder Ride, Thank you for making a difference in the lives of these children you help. We are so grateful for the work and generosity you put into this ride every single year!”
