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Feel the Burn '07: Down, but not out
Firefighter Mike Manning Manning doesn't know the word quit. Despite a serious injury brought on by bicycling hundreds of miles on his Feel the Burn '07 tour, Mike is continuing his quest to travel 3,100 miles across America to raise money and awareness for burn survivors.
Because of the injury, which would have put Mike at risk if he continued, Mike is now trading his bike for a different kind of ride. The chief of the Germantown (OH) Fire Department is loaning Mike his own 2003 Harley Davidson "Firefighters Limited Edition" so he can finish his trek and meet his goal of raising $100,000. Mike was scheduled to come back through his hometown on May 19 as part of the ride schedule.
"Feel the Burn 07" is designed to help raise awareness and financial support for the tremendous efforts that go into supporting burn survivors, from first responders, including firefighters and medical teams, to aftercare resources and peer support groups.
Mike left from Boston on May 8th and will end in San Jose, California.
"It's a bit ironic, many burn survivors set out to do something in a certain way but often have to alter things?-now, I'm doing the same thing and I'm committed to finishing this ride. In a small way, I was tested like burn survivors are in their recovery. My body has limitations but I realized with support from others I can still accomplish the goal--just in a different way. They have encouraged and inspired me to go on no matter what" Manning said.
All money raised is going to the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This organization is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. "Mike is just incredible..his message of hope and determination is contagious and serves as a reminder of how burn survivors often face incredible obstacles on their road to recovery but with support and resources can reach the goal of returning to life and reaching their personal goals. Mike 's journey in many ways is symbolic ?--facing adversity at times but having the will to adjust and go on" said Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix Society.
Mike's May 19 "Welcome back to Germantown" event at his fire station at 75 North Walnut street will include "thank you's" from burn survivors to Mike and a chance for the public to sign the Harley Mike is riding for good luck. Also, Germantown's Mayor will present Mike with a special citation for all his efforts.
Go to Mike's blog at feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com to track his progress and to see photos from various states. Go to www.phoenix-society.org to see how donations can be made or call 800-888-2876 to support Mike
To interview Mike call---(401) 441-7823
Mike's arrival in Germantown is scheduled for 5pm on May 19.
