Diabetes Solutions Poker Run

Last Saturday was the first annual poker run to benefit Diabetes Solution of Oklahoma. I was there, working the silent auction table and just helping out in general. I didn't bring my camera, but I did snap a few pictures with my phone. Also, thanks to Sharon (another volunteer) for some of these pictures, as I borrowed them from her facebook album. 

Riders lined up early to register for the run. The majority were cruiser riders, though there were a few sport bikes and sport tourers in the mix too.

A group of Honda Goldwings all showed up together, sporting patches on their jackets from the Oklahoma Goldwing Club. I didn't even realize Goldwing riders had their own clubs...

The Thunder Roadhouse, where the run started, is a restaurant and bar, with a custom chopper shop attached. They had some of their bikes out for display.

There was a bit of a lull while the riders were out riding, so I took some of the volunteers for some quick joyrides. That's Casey riding pillion, asking me where she's supposed to hold on. 

Boyd was very excited to have the winning bid on one of the silent auction items, a special date night including an 8 hour limo ride, a meal at a fancy restaurant, and a night in the Skervin Hotel, in downtown Oklahoma City. He planned on using it on his upcoming wedding night. 

A group of riders posing after finishing the route.

Over all, the Poker run went very well. We had a turn out of just under 100 bikes and raised over $7,000 for Diabetes Solutions. Not bad for a first time. 

Just a Reminder

The Diabetes Solutions first annual poker run, that I mentioned back in February, is coming up, the Saturday after next. If you're in the area, don't forget to register at www.DSOK.net ASAP. The Run will be April 26th, starting at 9:00am at the Thunder Road House Cafe. I'll be there and I'd love to talk to some readers if you're coming, so don't be afraid to say hi.

1st Annual Diabetes Solutions Poker Run

Diabetes Solutions of Oklahoma is a not-for-profit organization based in Oklahoma City, aimed towards improving the lives of people with diabetes and reducing the incidence of diabetes and the complications of diabetes. It also happens to be an organization that I've been involved with for a long time. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 9 years old. Only 2 months after being diagnosed, I went to my first session of diabetes summer camp, and it changed my life. Aside from the invaluable education I received that summer about the disease that was now a part of my life, I learned that I wasn't alone, and that it was possible for people with diabetes to live full and productive lives just like anyone else. Now, 14 years later, I still go to that camp every year, as a counselor for other children, many of whom are newly diagnosed and just as confused and frightened as I was. If it weren't for Diabetes Solutions, none of it would be possible. That's why I'd like to encourage everyone who's able to come out to the Thunder Road House Cafe on April 26 to support Diabetes Solutions of Oklahoma, not to mention have a good time and possibly win some money while you're at it. Click on the title link to go to the Diabetes Solutions website for more information and to register for the run. I'll be there, and I hope to see you there too.