Lakeland Village Man Rides Solo For Sick Kids

Despite blazing temperatures, Lakeland Village resident Dave Rusk set out today on his third “Ride For Wishes” solo motorcycle trip to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County and the Inland Empire.

This year he will be riding to all four geographical corners of the lower 48 states—Blaine, Washington; Madawaska, Maine; Key West, Florida, and San Ysidro, California.

Rusk’s ride will take about a month to complete. Along the way, he’ll visit different Make-A-Wish Chapters and keep a blog, updated regularly with pictures throughout his ride.

Rusk became involved in the ride after The Make-A-Wish Foundation granted Rusk’s nephew, Dylan, his wish to be a sheriff in 2007 as he battled leukemia. ( to read more about Dylan.)

Watching his nephew have his wish granted made Rusk realize what a dream come true can do for someone.

 “I ride because I want other kids and families to be able to experience and see how a difficult time in life can be changed with one wish,” Rusk said. “My hope is to bring awareness of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and raise a few dollars to help the Foundation grant wishes to children.”

Rusk’s brother and Dylan’s father, Bobby, planned on being a part of “Ride For Wishes,” but lost his own battle with leukemia in 2008. Rusk said he rides to honor and remember his brother, as well as raise money to support Make-A-Wish.

Since he began this annual ride three years ago, Rusk’s fundraising effort has brought in more than $20,000. He continues to raise funds and is hoping to sponsor his fifth wish by the end of the year.

To follow Rusk's blog as he rides across the nation, go to www.rideforwishes.blogspot.com. He also has a Facebook page: Rideforwishes Rides and a Twitter account @rideforwishes.     

Visit https://secure.wish.org/ourfriends/007-000/rideforwishes.htm to make an online donation or send a check to 14232 Red Hill Ave., Tustin, Ca, 92780. Please include "Ride For Wishes" in the memo. Checks should be made payable to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 

For more information on the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County and the Inland Empire, go to www.wishocie.org.