Feel The Burn 2007

Feel the Burn 2008 Info

2008-01-06T10:45:00.000-05:00

For Feel the Burn 2008 info please visit www.feeltheburn2008.blogspot.com

Thank you

FEEL THE BURN 2008!!!

2007-12-23T12:32:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Ramadan, Happy Happy everybody!

Hope '07 treated everyone well, couldn't have been too bad if your reading this.

We're getting Feel the Burn 2008 started up, there will be a blog to accompany it as well, I'll post a link from here once it's up and running (January).

This year we are doing a motorcycle relay from coast to coast. Like last year which was such an AWESOME success--survivors, burn centers and FD's will all be involved. We are working on the route right now so if you want to participate, know a survivor who would like a motorcycle ride, know of a burn center, want to support in any way please let me know at mikethebuddha@yahoo.com.

Cities/burn centers we are thinking of approaching right now are: (not in geographical order)

Germantown, OH (of course!)
Branford, CT
Minneapolis, MN
Baltimore, MD
Allentown, PA
NYC
Columbus, OH
Dayton, OH
Indianapolis, IN (Riley Burn Center)
Chicago, IL
Denver, CO (great accommodations, no parking tix this time around)
Trinidad, CO (Witch's Brew at the microbrewery is just calling my name)
La Veta, CO (just beautiful)
Durango, CO (fahgettaboutit)
San Jose, CA (VMC)
Kansas City, MO

Please have a happy and safe Holiday Season. Check your CO/smoke detectors.

Peace, love, and happiness,

Mike Manning
Germantown FD
mikethebuddha@yahoo.com

More from the Executive Director, Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors

2007-06-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors would also like to say thank you to the Firefighter Burn Institute in Sacramento for their generous donation of $300.00 to "Feel the Burn Ride 07" and also to the San Jose Firefighters Burn Foundation who gave generously as well in the amount of $1,000.

The Phoenix-Society appreciates all of the support it receives and any organization still looking to be part of the "Feel the Burn 07" fund raising campaign can contact the Phoenix-Society at www.phoenix-society.org for more information.

Thank you.
Amy Acton Executive Director, Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors

From the Executive Director, Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors

2007-06-25T13:57:00.000-04:00

On behalf of all of those affected by a burn injury and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors we want to take this opportunity to thank Firefighter Mike Manning for his incredible effort related to "Feel the Burn in 2007".

Literally, Mike challenged his body and mind to cross the country by himself and at some points did in deed "feel the burn". He did have challenges, but he fulfilled his goal to raise awareness and funds to support the Phoenix Society's ongoing work for burn survivors.

His efforts were heartfelt and it was contagious. So many were involved along the way and for that, we as an organization are grateful.

It was clear reading the blog that dozens and dozens of people were there to help Mike just as they are when someone suffers a devastating burn injury: The Firefighters, Burn Care Professionals, Burn Support Organizations and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

Together we are stronger - thank you to Mike and family for your time and commitment, and to everyone who made it possible.

From the beginning Mike was never alone! Ultimately that is what we are all working to accomplish - a community - so no one travels the road of burn recovery alone!

Amy Acton Executive Director, Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors

What a finale!

2007-06-25T10:40:00.000-04:00

What a party.

Sacramento and San Jose/VMC were absolutely awesome. Thank you to the Sacramento Shriner's Hospital for bringing ALL of the kids outside for the very nice ceremony. Shriner's Hospitals are the next thing to Disneyland for a lot of these kids- toys, games, cool rehab rooms. Great job. Thank you to Sacramento FD Station 2 for the MetRx Bars, T-shirt and great directions. Big Terry joined me on his yard sale Trek 5200 bicycle for the ride from Shriners to Station 2, nice riding w/ you Terry.

San Jose FD and VMC pulled out all of the stops for the finale. Thank you to everyone for your amazing efforts for the BIG fiesta at the VMC (Especially the clean footed nurses in the burn unit). Big Bad Bruce Weisberg made it out to the party, good seeing you brother. California is passionate about their burn care and that is awesome - let's keep that going!!!

Thank you to everyone who's donated, supported, housed me, helped me, helped a burn survivor, supported a burn unit. Think globally and act locally, let's all come together to expand the scope and power behind burn care. An hour of your time, even if it's once a month or every 2 months can really make a difference in a burn survivor's life - burn camps, burn units, FD's, the Phoenix Society all need your help in making burn care work for everyone. Thanks for watching the blog - let's do something BIG next year everyone, we are thinking about a cross country relay from burn center to burn center next year w/ FF's riding motorcycles to promote awareness. My email is mikethebuddha@yahoo.com if anyone is interested in doing something like that.

So peace out y'all, keep smiling , and express some gratitude everybody -- and like my blood brother Adam says, don't forget to "Check Your Head."

Beastie Boys, Gratitude

Good Times Gone
And You Missed Them
What's Gone Wrong
In Your System
Things They Bounce
Just Like A Spalding
What'd You Think
Did You Miss Your Calling
It's So Free
This Kind Of Feeling
It's Like Life
It's So Appealing
When You've Got So Much To Say
It's Called Gratitude, And That's Right

Good Times Gone
But You Feed It
Hate's Grown Strong
You Feel You Need It
Just One Thing
Do You Know You
What You Think
That The World Owes You
What's Gonna Set You Free
Look Inside And You'll See
When You've Got So Much To Say
It's Called Gratitude, And That's Right

More Photo's

2007-06-24T19:49:00.001-04:00

Thank you to Patty Neifer for these photos of Mike in Sacramento.
.
Mike at Shriners Hospital signing t-shirts for the kids.

Mike with firefighters from Sacramento Fire Department Station
2 taking off on the last leg of his ride.

PHOTO's !!

2007-06-22T11:30:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE: Grand Finale Set for Santa Clara Valley Medical Center

2007-06-15T15:08:00.000-04:00

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/"Feel the Burn Ride 07"
PHONE NUMBER-(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com

Cross-Country Ride for Burn Survivors Grand Finale Set for Santa Clara Valley Medical Center

Firefighter Faces Huge Obstacles But Keeps Going To Support Survivors

EDITOR'S NOTES:

* Interview/Photo Opportunity - Interviews with Mike Manning call 401-441-7823 to schedule

* Photos available at: www.feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com/

SAN JOSE, CA, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20TH - Ohio Firefighter Mike Manning will crossing the finish line of his extraordinary journey at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center on June 20th as part of a 3,100 mile cross-country trek from Boston to San Jose. The inaugural event, called "Feel the Burn '07," is part of Manning's mission to raise $100,000 and important awareness for burn survivors across the United States. A huge welcoming party for Manning is planned for noon in San Jose on June 20th. The event will bring together all of the people who provide important and meaningful assistance and care within the burn community every day. The festivities will include:

* A motorcycle escort from the Iron Warriors Motorcycle Club as Mike rides his bicycle across the official finish line tape where he'll be greeted by local firefighters

* Live Performance by the "Valley Medical Center Idols Band" which is doing a special performance in honor of Mike

* A home style Barbecue

* Speaking program where Mike will share his journey over the last number of weeks with burn survivors, families, medical staff, and volunteers

* An official signing ceremony where all attendees will have the chance to sign Mike's bicycle

Manning's journey has taken him across 13 states to generate financial support for the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, a national non-profit burn survivor assistance group based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Every penny collected towards the $100,000 goal is going to assist the needs and recovery services of burn survivors. Manning has been staying at fire stations from coast to coast to avoid using donation money for food and lodging.

The trip has had its share of challenges. After leaving Shriners Hospital in Boston on May 8th on his bicycle, Mike suffered an injury on the road that prevented him for pedaling his bicycle one more mile. Forced with the heart-wrenching decision of quitting, Mike came up with the idea of continuing his trek on his fire chief's Harley Davidson. As fate would have it, Mike was involved in an accident in Las Vegas and luckily wasn't seriously injured. Now, with his injury healed that occurred in May, Mike can finish this one-man journey the way he started---on his bicycle.

"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. Manning first came up with this nationwide campaign after selling his VW bus on E-bay and giving all of the proceeds to a burn survivor in need of help.

Amy Acton of the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors adds, "The entire burn community from burn survivors, healthcare providers and the fire fighters who every day give to the burn community have been simply outstanding in their support for Mike and his ride." All money raised is going to the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, which has 30-year history of helping people and is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy.

For more information on the Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, go to www.phoenix-society.org

For Mike's schedule in Sacramento please call 401-441-7823 or e-mail jeffderderian@hotmail.com

To read Mike's inspirational diary entries from the road and see the amazing people who have helped with this trek, go to: www.feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com/

Press Availability for Burn Center b-roll or interviews with Burn Center staff on Tuesday AM or day of event (6/20), please contact Joy Alexiou at 408.885.4164.

We're Getting Close!!!! Yay!!!!

2007-06-11T09:39:00.000-04:00

As we get ready for the grand finale of the Feel the Burn 2007 in San Jose we are very excited. I know this fundraiser is far from over but want to write some thoughts down for all of you before I am overcome with the daunting task of finding a full-time job to provide for my family. We have raised over $15,000 (thanks to many of you reading this right now) and donations are still coming in, I have visited 9 burn centers:

-Boston Shriner's Hospital
-Ohio State University Burn Center, Columbus OH
-Riley Burn Center, Indianapolis IN
-Memorial Medical Center, Springfield IL
-Burnett Burn Center at U of Kansas Hospital, Kansas City KS
-Via Christy Regional Medical Center, Wichita KS
-University of Colorado at Denver Burn Center, Denver CO
-Denver Children's Hospital, Denver CO
-The Arizona Burn Center, Phoenix AZ

and given out, with the help of 2 Germantown Fire Fighters, over 50 toys, crayons, books, and stuffed animals. I have received many calls from burn survivors I've never met before expressing their gratitude and kindness regarding what we ALL have accomplished. Many nurses and doctors expressed their thanks to the Phoenix Society and to all firefighters for what we do and how we always remember that there are burn patients and burn survivors. I have met many burn survivors who instantly became some of my closest friends and visited over 21 firehouses:

Branford, CT
Hartford, CT
Bloomingburg, NY
Dalton, PA
Canton, PA
Coudersport, PA
Germantown, OH
Martinsville, IN
Springfield FD, Springfield IL
Little Dixie Fire Protection District, Mexico, MO 573.581.6235 Chief Hoover c573-473-4001
Kansas City FD, Kansas City MO
Wichita FD, Wichita KS
Grant County FD, Ulysses, KS
Trinidad FD, Trinidad, CO 81082
Denver Fire Rescue, Denver CO
La Veta FD, La Veta, CO
Durango Fire and Rescue, Durango, CO
Phoenix Fire Rescue, Phoenix AZ
Las Vegas Fire Rescue, Las Vegas, NV
Sacramento FD, Sacramento, CA
San Jose FD, San Jose, CA

I have helped people look at the bright side of being in the closely knit burn community and they have helped me understand that helping others, and allowing others to help is priceless.

The Phoenix Society is an amazing organization. I knew it was when I started but feel it with much more conviction now. Every fire department and hospital I visited was touched at how the Phoenix Society fills a much needed void in burncare today. They all wished they could join me on this journey and that just shows the commitment and caring that is in the full circle of burncare; from first responder, to hospital, to therapy, to the Phoenix Society. There are so many people who have benefited from the Phoenix Society's matrix of support; burn survivors, their families and friends, healthcare workers, firefighters, and the hundreds of people who have donated to this fundraiser, especially Chief Anding whose Harley is such an inspirational symbol of the energy in all of us powering this ride forward. Giving is a beautiful thing isn't it - it helps the one who gives as well as the one who receives. Awesome.

I do not have any commitments this week so I am taking some time off from traveling right now, getting some much needed rest. I have made a change to the finale in San Jose. I am recently 100% healed from my cycling injury and want to finish on my bicycle, the one with so many signatures from burn survivors I've met along this great journey. I will be leaving Sacramento on June 19th to finish the final leg of the journey on my bicycle, arriving in San Jose on the 20th. This is how I want to finish this coast to coast journey of raising awareness of the Phoenix Society and those whom they help.

I will not be posting much this week as I gear up for San Jose and focus my thoughts on what good we ALL have accomplished. I will post all of the details of the San Jose reception party as they come in though. The world is definitely a better place because of this fundraiser, I truly believe that. From the bottom of my big warm heart, I want to thank all of you out there who have donated, supported, given me water, given me food, given me a place to sleep, washed my clothes, given me clothes, driven me places when my legs we so tired, let me use your internet connection, let me ride in your firetrucks on calls, given me hope, made me laugh, made me cry, bought me drinks, given me directions (good and bad), given me toys (thank you Target), and shared your burn survivor stories with me. I also want to send a big thank you to Jani Spede and the Clemson University marketing class who helped get the word out on this fundraiser and helped focus our efforts before my tires even hit the road.

There are some phrases in the English language that fall short from the meaning we are attaching to them. "Thank You" is one of these phrases that I want to use for three individuals who are/were such a big part of this fundraiser but feel it is inadequate. I would like to say "Mahalo" instead. Mahalo is Hawaiian for thanks and gratitude, and also thanks for all that is, I have said it only a handful of times in my life. My friend Big Will from Hawaii (the Big Island) explained to me that it is the deepest way of showing appreciation and love of someone with your spirit. You say it with your spirit and your voice simultaneously. I say Mahalo to four individuals right now: Amy Acton (Executive Director of the Phoenix Society), my good friend Jeff Derderian (the person behind the scenes of all of the media support we have received), and my lovely cousin Kathy Greenler (internet guru, positive influence, and the one who set up the blog), and Chief Scott Anding (new Daddy) who donated his motorcycle to this cause. These four people are very special to me and have transformed part of my spirit during this fundraiser, and for that I say Mahalo to you all.

See you in San Jose my friends, stay posted for event details.

Your friend,

Mike Manning

Images from the Road: Vegas Bound (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

La Di Da Di

2007-06-06T17:59:00.000-04:00

Las Vegas. The city of sin, you never come out the way you went in.

I'm staying at Station 5 tonight and am excited to have a pillow to sleep on, I'm running about 50% pillow/no pillow in the firehouses, i can pretty much sleep anywhere with or without normal bedding now.

I started my day at 0545 and headed NW to beat the heat. After getting out of the Valley of the Sun the temp was very mild. I kept under the radar today and saw a ton of Joshua Trees. Very cool, apparantly they only grow in NW AZ, that's the word on the street, and you just can't beat the word on the street.

I THEN GOT AN AWESOME VOICEMAIL FROM CHIEF SCOTT ANDING. MADISON MARIE ANDING WAS BORN LAST NIGHT AT 10:30. MOM IS DOING OK AND SO IS MADISON, AT 12 POUNDS. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I CAN'T WAIT TO GET BACK TO SEE LITTLE ANDING. GREAT NEWS, JUST GREAT.

I went over the Hoover Dam today and that was pretty cool. I was amazed at all of the powerlines coming from that bad boy.

I got a good work out today and the guys fed me a great lunch. I just got a call from Bruce and I'm meeting him later on for a bite to eat. That's about it. I'm still really amazed at what great weather I've had on this trip, I got rained on in Wichita and that's it. Giddy up.

I'll post some pics in a minute.

I'll be visiting the Lions' Burn Center here in Vegas tomorrow and can't wait to see it. It is really new.

A little John Donne to finish the post, Broken Hearted:

He is stark mad, whoever says, That he hath been in love an hour,Yet not that love so soon decays, But that it can ten in less space devour ;Who will believe me, if I swearThat I have had the plague a year? Who would not laugh at me, if I should say I saw a flash of powder burn a day?Ah, what a trifle is a heart, If once into love's hands it come !All other griefs allow a part To other griefs, and ask themselves but some ;They come to us, but us love draws ;He swallows us and never chaws ; By him, as by chain'd shot, whole ranks do die ; He is the tyrant pike, our hearts the fry.If 'twere not so, what did become Of my heart when I first saw thee?I brought a heart into the room, But from the room I carried none with me.If it had gone to thee, I knowMine would have taught thine heart to show More pity unto me ; but Love, alas ! At one first blow did shiver it as glass.Yet nothing can to nothing fall, Nor any place be empty quite ;Therefore I think my breast hath all Those pieces still, though they be not unite ;And now, as broken glasses showA hundred lesser faces, so My rags of heart can like, wish, and adore, But after one such love, can love no more.

Germantown Pics May 19th, 2007 from Scott Magargal

2007-06-06T17:25:00.000-04:00

PHOTO GALLERY: These are pics from the Germantown event on May 19th from Scott Magargal. Addition, Scott took some photo's of burn masks. These masks are made via a laser and each mask is made individually for each burn survivor. They help reduce scarring and help healing.

Click to view all the photo's on FLICKR

Images from the Road: Phoenix (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-05T21:25:00.001-04:00

Phoenix, AZ

2007-06-05T20:49:00.000-04:00

(NOTE: This is from Mike ... he couldn't log into the blog so he emailed us this post so everyone could read it tonight!)

Today I visited the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, the second largest burn center in the US. I got a grand tour from Dr. Marc and also met with Brett, the hospital's PIO, and Mike and Joe from the Burn Foundation here.

They informed me of the potential problems burn units around the country are running into, mainly staying financially afloat, to remain open to burn patients. Pretty sobering. There aren't but a couple hundred beds in burn units across the country, 43 burn units to be exact, so the potential for some capacity problems is very real. I was able to meet with a 12 year old boy today who was progressing well and picked out some cool cars from the grab bag o' toys. The burn unit here is looking into getting involved with the Phoenix Society, especially the SOAR program. I also think it would help with the burn foundation's totally awesome burn camp which starts each year on Father's Day.

Big Mike from the burn foundation gave me a highly sought after shirt from the camp - THANKS! Big Joe took me out to lunch at La Casa de Mariachi restaurant, it was great and Gracias.

After some lane splitting through PHX traffic, still got it, I made it back to the station just in time to avoid bursting into flames from the heat. I am absolutely amazed that people live here in Phoenix. No offense to all of you out there who love PHX, which is a great town, but it's really hot. Really hot. My Nordic genes are not cut out for it at all. Allright enough whining Mike. Oh no, i'm typing to myself, must be the heat.

I just made contact with the Chief in Vegas so I now have a place to sleep tomorrow, yay! I'm going to head out around 5am to beat the heat and should be in Vegas by 8. I'm meeting burn survivor "Big Daddy" Bruce Weisman tomorrow in Vegas which should be cool. Bruce has offered a lot of support for me on this long trek and I can't wait to meet him.

Since i'm in Vegas, should I put the roughly $12k we've raised so far on the Craps table? Let me know, we could win big.:-) What could happen?

Let's do a poem of the day shall we? I don't think any of my own are good enough to be read, so here is my main man Henry David Thoreau:

The Inward Morning

Packed in my mind lie all the clothes
Which outward nature wears,
And in its fashion's hourly change
It all things else repairs.
In vain I look for change abroad,
And can no difference find,
Till some new ray of peace uncalled
Illumes my inmost mind.

What is it gilds the trees and clouds,
And paints the heavens so gay,
But yonder fast-abiding light
With its unchanging ray?

Lo, when the sun streams through the wood,
Upon a winter's morn,
Where'er his silent beams intrude,
The murky night is gone.

How could the patient pine have known
The morning breeze would come,
Or humble flowers anticipate
The insect's noonday hum--

Till the new light with morning cheer
From far streamed through the aisles,
And nimbly told the forest trees
For many stretching miles?

I've heard within my inmost soul
Such cheerful morning news,
In the horizon of my mind
Have seen such orient hues,

As in the twilight of the dawn,
When the first birds awake,
Are heard within some silent wood,
Where they the small twigs break,

Or in the eastern skies are seen,
Before the sun appears,
The harbingers of summer heats
Which from afar he bears.

Doesn't get better than that,

Mike

Images from the Road: Durango to Phoenix (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-04T21:52:00.001-04:00

Durango to Phoenix

2007-06-04T21:46:00.000-04:00

(NOTE: This is from Mike ... he couldn't log into the blog so he emailed us this post so everyone could read it tonight!)

I started the day off at 6am in Durango, at a brisk 50 degrees. I was able to see the sunrise light up the San Juan Mountains and it was beautiful. One of those images that will always stick with me. I passed through the Ute and Navajo Nations today. What a travesty of human justice and caring. I saw extremely poor people living on the crappiest and most unfertile land I've seen. Very sad.

Both times I stopped for gas in the Indian Nations I was approached by men asking for money, albeit politely. My usual response is "No, but if you're hungry i'll be happy to give you some food." In all the years i've said this only one man, in Downtown Crossing in Boston, said that he needed food. 2 big Macs and fries later he was in good spirits. One man today took me up on my offer, I kind of thought he would by the look of him. I gave him some bananas and bread and he was very thankful. Oddly enough, we got talking and it turns out he is a burn survivor, showed me his scars and everything. I gave him the Phoenix Society flyer and wished him good luck.

Who knew that riding a motorcycle over 89mph was a criminal offense in AZ? News to me. I did not bother explaining that in Boston (where I learned to drive) the posted speed limit means you can roughly go 15mph over without getting harassed. Anyway, before you judge me everybody, I was on the straightest, smoothest, most desolate road you can imagine. doing the limit would have been a crime. So there I was, in the Painted Cliffs with a very perturbed state trooper by my side. Upon explained why I was there, speeding on a borrowed motorcycle, he relaxed and wrote the ticket for 10 over the limit. Thanks Rosco. Boo yah!

I rode 500 miles today, 480 of it in the desert. The sun was scorching, the wind felt like a blowtorch, or like hanging out over a roof ventilation hole for 9 hours. I have never felt heat like I felt today. OK, once but i can't explain that here.

I couldn't help but think "why?" someone would or could settle down here in this desert. If I were an early pioneer, I'd a been rowing through the Carribean pal. Why would you search for gold when you can eat coconuts and sleep on the beach?

The temp rose about 70 degrees from the start of my day to the end of it. The seguros were very cool upon reaching the valley here in Phoenix. It looks like it hasn't rains here in eons. I wish i had more time to visit all of the neat sites in the southwest that I passed today, Anasazi ruins, the big meteor crater, Grand Canyon, and Ship Rock. I'm on a mission so that'll have to wait. They're not going anywhere.

I'm very excited about seeing the 2nd largest burn unit in the US tomorrow. I'm going out after dinner to restock my toys and coloring books. There is a vicious rumor that a few PFD Ff's are joining me on their Harleys for the arrival at the hospital. I hope that materializes.

Peace for now my good friends. Was it just here or was the moon in the sky all morning today? Just awesome.

Quote of the day: "Knowledge speaks, wisdom listens." - Jimi Hendrix

Images from the Road: Durango (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-04T06:57:00.001-04:00

Can't forget the quote of the day!

2007-06-03T22:28:00.000-04:00

Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared. --- buddha

Durango day 2

2007-06-03T19:45:00.000-04:00

Rafting the Animas river was awesome. The water we were floating on was snow yesterday so it was maybe 38 degrees. Captain Lou brought us through some very beautiful whitewater for about 3 hours or so. I hit a health food store (they're everywhere out here, it's great!) and stocked up on food and juice for tomorrow's big ride to Phoenix. I'll be heading out around 5 or 6am to get a jump on the heat. We just finished a great chicken dinner here at the station and I'm going to start packing so I can get up and go in the morning.

There is something about traveling on a great journey that changes you to one extent. In Buddhism they say that leaving your homeland is half of the Dharma or teaching. I would have to agree and add that leaving one's home allows one to find who they truly are; nice, mean, generous, greedy, loving, introverted, etc. There have been many times when I have been out of my element or comfort zone. As the journey goes along, I find that my comfort zones are all but vanished and I'm comfortable with anyone at anytime and anywhere. There have been times when I have been so hungry and desperate for any place that sells food that I'll eat anything. You'd be surprised how much you don't care what is on your plate when you're truly hungry. There have been times when I've been so tired I was thankful to have just a dry floor available to sleep on, but of course the awesome Fd's have taken great care of me, every night.

However, we don't need to take great trips across the country to grow and make positive changes in our lives. Maybe just opening up and letting go a little during our daily routines can bring us more peace, happiness, and understanding of this sometimes mysterious life.

I also feel like this world is a smaller place than I thought. I never thought it to be very big in the first place, but it is smaller to me now. I have met hundreds of FF's and their families and eaten and slept in many people's homes. I have asked tons of people for directions along the way, and assisted a few motorists along side of the road. Knowing more people on this planet feels good. I have met many people whose struggles and tribulations make any woe I've ever thought to be important look so foolish. I have met people who have buried their children, some younger than my own. Some have had to bury their soulmates, and a piece of their own in the process. I have met people who have lost their vision from burns and hearing from burn related antibiotics. I have met parents who feel as though there is nothing they can do for their child who is in a hospital bed in a drug induced coma. I have met burn survivors who have inspired me to tears, and many who have shown me how to find the fun in life. We all will suffer and struggle in this life my friends. Because we will all suffer to one degree or another in this life there is interconnectedness among all of here. We are not alone, we all are trying to find happiness amongst our suffering and struggles. Maybe knowing that everyone we encounter in life is trying to be happy/find happiness will make it easier to help them find that happiness, and perhaps find our own in the process.

Good night,

Mike

Images from the Road: La Veta (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-03T19:22:00.000-04:00

This came in this morning from Mike.

Images from the Road: Denver to La Veta (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-03T19:18:00.000-04:00

These are from Saturday, June 2nd.

Sunday AM

2007-06-03T13:07:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm going on little sleep today. DFD ran all night long. I'm ready for my first rafting experience and can't wait to have some fun. The river is very cold and fast today and seems to be cresting. We had breakfast at the Colorado Mounted Rangers banquet. They had a country band, with a cool stand-up bass. I filled up on about 4000 calories worth of eggs and biscuits and returned to the station to catch up on some poems I've been trying to finish. Now, off to the Animas River, which means "river of lost souls" in Navajo.

Mike

Denver to La Veta

2007-06-02T20:57:00.000-04:00

I left Denver around 10am and headed to Colorado Springs to see the Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial. I would encourage everyone to visit it once. It was very somber seeing the names of our fallen brothers and sisters, I definitely feel a stronger connection to the profession that I love. It was very sad seeing the 2001 part of the wall where so many names were followed by a "NY" on the wall. Let's remember to buckle up out there to keep as many names off of the wall as possible.

After downing a huge burrito I headed further south to La Veta, CO. La Veta is a cute town of about 800 people nestled at the base of the Spanish Peaks (pic). Asst. Chief Rich took me to dinner (thanks!!!) and then gave me a tour of the area. I saw my first elk (freakin' huge) and a ton of deer. I was later told about 50 bear stories and told to be careful walking around at night. No problem, I think I'll just stay in thank you. Sue Pezze of the LVFD made a wonderful breakfast for myself, Rich, and her husband Richard. Sue, you are a great chef! Everything was perfect.

Sue took me for a tour of her farm and showed me a few of the classic tractors her husband has restored, really cool. Thank you LVFD for putting me up in a hotel last night, nothing like a good night's sleep.

I headed out to Durango, CO this morning after the top notch breakfast. I saw some of the most beautiful country I've ever seen today. Words cannot describe the natural beauty in the Wolf Creek Pass area. Check it out if you can, it's worth the trip and then some. it was cold and snow was on the ground up there around 11k feet, I figure the Harley lost about 40% power up there. Durango FD gave me warm welcome and we're having burgers tonight. I worked out for a while in their huge gym and am ready to chow down. There is a rafting competition going on this weekend in Durango so I'll be checking that out tomorrow after seeing if there are any kids in the local Hospital. After that I'm going rafting with Capt. Lou, can't wait, I don't have a swimsuit so I guess the birthday suit will have to do, sorry Lou. Lou just read this and did not find that funny at all.

I hope all is well at the Gtown FD while I'm gone. Chief Anding's wife Heather is expecting a baby any day now. Good Luck!!!!!

EVERY Harley owner I've spoken with is absolutely shocked at the generosity of Chief Anding. Thanks again chief, you're the bomb.

Till tomorrow my friends, be good.

Quote of the Day: "I have got a running stream of love you see. So no matter what stages.. they put us through, we'll never be blue." - Bob Marley

Images from the Road: Denver, CO to La Veta, CO (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-01T15:24:00.001-04:00

Images from the Road: Last Evening ... Denver, CO (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-06-01T08:05:00.000-04:00

Denver, CO

2007-05-31T20:30:00.000-04:00

Hey hey hey, hope your last day of May was okay.

I had a wonderful night's sleep at station 21 last night. No calls. I headed out early to get the rear tire changed on the bike and then rolled out to Red Rocks. Red Rocks is an area west of the city that has these huge, beautiful, red rocks jutting out of the landscape. There is a natural amphitheatre there that I'm told has great acoustics. The amphitheatre is located just beyond where my shoe is in the pics. I hiked up a good size hill to get some great views and meditated on a small overhang for about a half hour. On my way down a 5 foot rattlesnake was warming up on the path. I'm glad I've watched Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwin - I kept hearing them in my head on the path - "You gotta be very careful, danger, danger" (in an Australian accent). I carefully found a way around the awesome snake and met with the burn unit Dr's and nurses at U of C at Denver. Mary and her clan were happy to have me and I was able to meet Kedrick, a burn patient there. The other patients were sleeping at the time.

I then met up with Melisa, a burn survivor who is helping get the Phoenix Society SOAR program started in Denver -YAY! I am meeting with Melisa and her boyfriend Erin, also a burn survivor, for Asian food tonight and some Jazz.

After U of C Hosp. I drove over to Children's Hospital to meet up with Denver FD Asst. Chief Pat Hynes. We met with Jamal, a 7 year old who is in burn rehab and doing great. He did a great job today in rehab and loved the toy and crayons I gave him. A smile on a child's face is priceless isn't it? Hopefully Jamal will be able to attend the Denver Burn Camp this year.

I want to thank Pat for letting me crash at his place this evening- all for the small price of washing and ironing his laundry, tiling his bathroom, and waxing his truck. Not a bad deal if I may say so.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After dinner post:

Just got back from a great dinner with Melisa and Erin, 2 very cool people. Thank you both for the great conversation and dinner.

Erin is from Durango and gave me a list of restaurants and microbreweries (take it easy Mike) to try down there - can't wait!

Melisa is a stunning inspirational speaker who's mantra is "Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional." Doesn't get more real than that folks. Melisa can be reached at melisa@ofloveandfire.com for speaking engagements.

Well, I'm tired and going to bed after I get this 2nd coat of wax on Pat's truck. Good night all.

Mike

Images from the Road: Denver, CO (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-31T11:46:00.000-04:00

Mike said there is a snake some where in this picture!

Trinidad, mucho gusto

2007-05-30T19:32:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was fun. I made it through eastern CO, crazy unpopulated. Hwy 160 in eastern CO is where you can run flat out for miles and not see anyone, surreal.

Made it to Trinidad around 10:30 AM and got a great pizza at a local cafe. I then went after some coffee and a huge cinnamon roll at a Main St. bakery, it was awesome. I have realized that I need a lot of food. I have lost 7 pounds since I began this journey, I think it's because I don't have food readily available every 2 hours. I'm trying to keep more food on hand.

I worked out at the FD and took a cruise out to Trinidad lake where I took a picture of the mountain top mesa in the pics. It is very dry out here and my lungs feel like cardboard. I'm drinking copious amounts of h20 just to stay hydrated. Trinidad is an old mining town on the Santa Fe Trail, Billy the Kid and some other famous people of the era have been here. A classy local girl recommended I try the local micro-brew for dinner and it was awesome. They had a dark Lager that was delicious and after dinner I went out for some dessert that was spectacular.

I drove up here to Denver this AM and met with a Dr. at the children's burn hospital here. Chief Paddy Hynes hooked me up at Station 21 by the park and the crew just made a great chicken and pasta dinner - thanks! I'm riding Engine 21 tonight and hope it's QUIET.

Since FOX NEWS cancelled, I'm getting a new tire put on the Harley in the AM and then meeting with some burn patients at U of C Denver Burn hospital. I'm then meeting with a bunch of burn survivors for dinner and hopefully taking in some live Jazz.

I hope everyone out there is having a great "now", I know I am.

Quote of the day:
“A pain stabbed my heart as it did every time I saw a girl I loved who was going the opposite direction in this too-big world” - Jack Kerouac

No FOX for you!

2007-05-30T19:31:00.000-04:00

I have just been informed that FOX NEWS will not be interviewing me tomorrow, they are covering a new war story instead. Oh, well.

Images from the Road: Trinidad, CO (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-29T19:06:00.000-04:00

Well, we got a cryptic note from Mike via his cell phone that there was no ISP (Internet Service Provider) - so presumably we will not hear from him on the blog tonight. We do have this amazing photo of the scenery that he sent us from his phone. :-)

Images from the Road: Ulysses, KS to Trinidad, CO (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-29T15:29:00.000-04:00

Chief Crosby

Burn Survivor Story: Ron Thompson

2007-05-28T19:15:00.000-04:00

(Courtesy of the Phoenix Society and Steve Lobel, author of "Recognition Beyond Burned: Portraits of Survival, Rebirth & Hope")

Until the night of February 22, 1984 , I was an average 16-year-old. I was in high school. I liked playing sports and hanging out with friends. On that night, I went riding around with my girlfriend’s brother. We met some of his friends and decided to drag race. We passed a slow-moving vehicle on a curve and couldn’t see the oncoming pickup truck. We hit head on. The engine was pushed into my lap, breaking my right leg near my hip and trapping me in the car, which then caught fire. I put my hands up to protect my face. It got so hot the dashboard melted and dripped onto my leg. The flames were getting me. The rescue people had to wait until the fire was out to free me with the Jaws of Life. By this time I had been burned over thirty-five percent of my body. I had third- and fourth-degree burns on my chest and back, on the right side of my face and head, and on my right arm and left hand. I lost part of the fingers on my left hand and some vision in my right eye. The fire took my right ear and my right arm just below the elbow. I also lost the rest of my childhood. I spent three months in a hospital, three months in rehab, and twenty-one-years-and-counting undergoing more than a hundred surgeries and working to recover physically and emotionally.

It’s a hard road, but I’m glad I survived. I’m married, and have four children and a grandson. I’m still trying to get the truck-driving job of my dreams. For the most part I lead a normal life. Dealing with depression is an ongoing concern. For many years I felt very lonely, struggling with how others saw and accepted me. Along with the support of my family, friends and community, it’s been very important for me to have a connection with the Phoenix Society and others who have been burned. I continue to feel the stares from those who are curious, those who are shocked, and those who are scared by what they see. I try to use these opportunities to educate others in understanding and compassion.

My name is Ron Thompson.

2 inspirational people to me

2007-05-28T19:02:00.000-04:00

As I wrestled with going back to the burn unit last night to visit with Hally (I decided against it because she needs her rest) I reflected on 2 influential people that played a part in my desire to go back to the hospital - Bobby Orr (awesome Boston Bruin in the 70's and 80's) and my father, Patrick. Bobby Orr frequently visited the local children's hospital after a game in whatever town he was playing in, bringing sticks, shirts, toys, and stuffed animals to ALL of the sick kids. All while his teamates were out doing whatever sports stars do. I met Orr at a North Quincy, MA Xmas parade in 1984. My dad brought me over to shake his hand and I still remember it like it was yesterday. He had very kind eyes.

My dad has always taught me by example to be generous, with time, words, and money. I am thankful to have known both of these men, and hope that I can be just as good a father to Sean and Catherine as my father is to me.

El pregunta de la dia/question of the day

2007-05-28T18:42:00.000-04:00

What's the most bizarre thing you've ever been asked by a complete stranger?

Well, besides that.

Ulysses, KS

2007-05-28T18:07:00.000-04:00

Thanks WFD for feeding me for 2 days and letting me on run the Engine and Squad with you. Thanks again for your generous donation to this fundraiser, and also to you Raymond from Lebanon. I started the day off with an alarm that turned out to be nothing. I had my usual breakfast: glass of water, 3 cups of coffee (sugar and milk), bowl of oatmeal w/ brown sugar (no raisins today), 6 egg whites (cooked), 2 bananas (peeled). I finished my laundry and worked out for a while.

After taking a long shower (I really miss my Braun razor, the Mach 3 can't hold a candle) I hit the road around 9:30. I added some extra miles to my trip today because highway 54 is still shut down at Greensburg. I saw what the same tornado did a little north of there on hwy 56. I have never seen anything like tornado damage. Trees were freakin' everywhere, signs flipped over, trees snapped like toothpicks, and irrigation equipment twisted up. Pretty trippy.

I can't send pics today because I don't have any cell service, hopefully tomorrow. Today, I rode on the longest, straightest, most desolate roads I've ever been on. I would think a vehicle was approaching soon on the horizon and wait to pass, but they were like a mile away. During the last 30 miles of my trip today I saw only 3 cars, either direction, until I got here to Ulysses. I went a total of 255 miles today. I passed a cattle processing facility (check out the book "Fast Food Nation") in Dodge City (which has a Ford dealership) today. Picture and smell 100,000 head of cattle in the hot sun with a tailwind. YO, absolutely disgusting. But to some I guess that's the smell of money. I also saw a HUGE wind farm and lots of vegetables growing. Well, I didn't exactly observe them growing although I'm sure they were. They really just looked like they were still. I'm finding out the wind is always blowing in KS, about 15-20 mph out of the SW, all the time. Feels like a hair dryer in the afternoon sun.

Ulysses is a town like Germantown but much newer, settled around 1890 (my house was 76 yrs old at that time and my grandfather was 4), 5k people and a separate fire and EMS division. They are the only FD in the whole county of 10k people, which covers 575 square miles. Things are a little different here in KS. I just got back from the grocery store and everyone knew I was not from Ulysses, did the Hemp Chuck Taylors give it away??? The record definitely skipped when I walked in. People in KS are VERY VERY nice and super conversational.

Well, were having a BBQ tonight at the EMS station where I'm staying, the FD doesn't have a bunk room. I'm off to Trinidad, CO tomorrow and feel like wetting my whistle - maybe they'll have a local ale or porter on tap, yum! I'm told I'll wish I were on the roads I rode on today after I head west. Local lore has it that eastern CO is a moonscape with less scenery.

To the owner of the Harley - I'm taking good care of her and have not passed gas on your seat. Now that's respect! Although, I can't say what I did to the tailpipe. Thanks again Scott.

-Mike

This is why I'm doing this ride

2007-05-28T18:05:00.000-04:00

From www.thesecretlist.com - A Fulton County (Georgia) firefighter was killed this morning while operating at a house fire. The Firefighter died from injuries he sustained while attempting to rescue a trapped victim in a 2 story residence in the City of Johns Creek. The fire began at 0500 and at this time, the Firefighter hasn't been publicly identified. Another Firefighter was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital (in Atlanta), where he was listed in guarded condition with burn injuries. Fulton County Firefighters were searching the home for civilians reported inside the house....at least 1 civilian is reported to have lost their life.Details to follow as they become available later this evening.

St. Francis Burn Unit, Wichita

2007-05-27T15:28:00.000-04:00

Just returned from the burn unit at St. Francis. A great team of Dr's and nurses gave me a tour. Rhonda, Sara, Doug, and Lynnette do a fantastic job with patient care. I met with Tony, a burn patient there. Tony is President of the Tonkawa Tribe in OK, who are originally from Texas, and signed the FF Harley. Tony is a super cool guy and is happy to be in the burn survivor community/club and we're happy to welcome him. Tony also donated 2 new Harleys for the hospital's fundraiser "Poker Run" this week, what a guy.

I also met with Hally, a six year old girl who is recovering well. I hope you like your cars Hally. Remember, it's easier to be like Spongebob than Squidward. PLEASE keep Hally in your thoughts and prayers at this complicated time in her life. I wish I could trade places with her. Too bad there isn't an easy button for that.

No two 911 calls are the same - this story is testament to that. We responded to a reported house/kitchen fire this AM. As it turns out, we suspect a couple hundred roaches completed a 220volt circuit in the resident's stove and fried the wires. To complicate things we found out that Raid is highly flammable. jk

I'm going out tonight with some folks from the hospital to check out Wichita away from the fire station. Then it's off to Ulysses, KS tomorrow. Yee haw!

QUESTION OF THE DAY:

Prior to this trip, I had slept at only 3 different firehouses in my life, which had below zero temps in the bunkroom. Now that I've slept at more: WHY DO BUNKROOMS HAVE TO BE SO COLD??? I like it chilly but I feel like I'm at an Everest base camp sometimes. Your thoughts???????

I'm out, and I'm gone......I tell you now I kick it on and on!

Images from the Road: Wichita, KS Con't (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-27T13:27:00.000-04:00

Images from the Road: Wichita, KS (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-26T22:42:00.001-04:00

Well ... Mike beat us to posting this evening! :-)

Wichita, KS

2007-05-26T16:31:00.000-04:00

Started the day today, after 2 hours sleep, by having breakfast with KC KS FF Dave Doherty. Thanks for breakfast Dave. Gotta love the west, you can get egg white omelettes w/o hassle. After 7 pots of coffee I headed out to Wichita.

The Great Plains are, well, great. I'm riding on Engine 1 at station 1 downtown tonight and getting pointers on forcible entry (through the lock) from FF Mark. I'm doing laundry right now and just got done working out. I made it down the pole without incident earlier on a house fire call that turned out to be steam coming off of the roof after the rain. Huh??? It had been about 9 years since I had last managed a fire pole, no sweat. Pat Bailey would be proud. Besides that it's been pretty uneventful today. I stop for gas at half a tank because stations are very sparce, even worse out in west KS I'm told.

I'm heading down to the burn unit tonight at St. Francis to check it out and maybe get a bite to eat.

Jenn and the kids are at a party today so I hope their having fun and wish I were there. I miss them terribly but I'll be home soon. It is very hard when they call and the kids end up crying by the time the conversation is over, that makes me feel like a jerk sometimes. I hope they understand what I'm doing as best they can for their age. I am doing this for my kids as well, I want their lives to be lived in a kinder world than we see today. I have to remember that great things do not get accomplished without sacrifice and enthusiasm. The Harley is going great and I removed a metric ton of bugs from the windshield today, sorry bugs.

Be good.

Mike

Where are all the riders?

2007-05-26T08:50:00.000-04:00

C'mon everybody, its gets lonely on the road. Get on that motorcycle and join me for a bit, I promise I won't bite, well maybe just a little. Ok, drive your car next to me, whatever, lets show our support and thanks for burn survivors and burn units!

Peace,

Mike

Oh yeah

2007-05-26T08:47:00.000-04:00

The pics below are from the MO Fallen FF Memorial. It was definitely worth the stop. The original statue that was intended for the memorial was in NYC customs on 9/11/01. NY kept it for their own and the second one is in MO.

May all 343 rest in peace. We think of you daily, thank you.

KCFD, Mo

2007-05-26T08:18:00.000-04:00

Good morning all, sorry for my absence yesterday. After a good night's sleep in Mexico I headed out to KC early yesterday. I still can't quite just get up and go. I don't think I'm cut out for living out of a backpack.

I made the 170 mile trip in the rain and arrived at the Univ. of Kansas hospital/Burnett Burn Center around1pm. Upon arriving I was greeted by Dave Hurlbut and his daughter. Dave is a burn survivor, a cool dude, and helped design and pay for the kick butt burn unit here. It is very cool. There is a nice day room and rehab/exercise room for patients and the unit has lots of windows. All burn related care is provided in the same wing, including the OR (looks just like the ones on TV) so patients do not need to get carted all over the place. This also means that the pretty and talented nurses can keep an eye on them so they are taken care of all the time. Thank you Kayla, Julie, Marsha, and Tracy (I hope I remembered your names correctly:-) for the tour. Keep up the great work. I was able to speak with a burn patient at the unit and gave her a toy, we're all kids at heart so everyone gets something no matter how old they are. If that doesn't make people smile I sometimes have to resort to singing "Paul Revere" by the Beastie Boys, whatever it takes - No one in the burn unit is safe!

This unit also cared for 6 of our brothers who were burned here in a KC commercial flashover back in January. ALL of the burned FF's will be back to work very soon. False ceilings in old buildings stink.

I was able to run a few calls with the Rescue here at station 19, which is conveniently close to the party district, which also sums up my evening after 7pm. Thank you to Joe for the Gatorade at Kelly's Bar. Joe owns the place and retired from Hook and Ladder 7 after 31 years of service to KCFD, his shield is on the wall there.

I found out yesterday that I will be on FOX NEWS on 5/31 from Denver at 8:40am est to talk about the fundraiser. Giddy up.

I'm meeting with a FF who is also a burn survivor for breakfast and aspirin this AM after I log off, then it's off to Wichita for 2 nights, and then on to CO.

Thank you to B shift for feeding me for free yesterday and letting me use the Capt.'s quarters during my stay. Station 19 is 7 months old and is Sa-weet. Weight room, wide screen, b-ball, ping pong, you name it. Special thanks to Trevor for the linens hook up.

When in KC, I would have to recommend the Boulevard Pale Ale with a lemon wedge.

I saw a couple street performers yesterday who were breakdancing. i'll have to bring some cardboard w/ me on the way back east and give them a run for their money. You don't know me!

Thank you for the GREAT time KC, check ya later.

Images from the Road: University of Kansas (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-25T21:07:00.000-04:00

Images from the Road: Firefighter's Memorial and MORE (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-25T10:05:00.000-04:00

Se habla Espanol?

2007-05-24T19:53:00.000-04:00

Mexico, MO. Had a WINDY day today. A front was blazing through the plains and blew me around all day. The Harley sucked down almost 2 tanks of gas just getting here. I started the day visiting Lincoln's home in Springfield. It was pretty cool. It is located in an 1800's period block of Springfield which is a National Site. Seeing the St. Louis Arch was really cool. It looks far out as you're approaching the city. After a great salad and baked potato I had to leave a little early to beat the storms.

Mexico is like Germantown but a little more spread out. They have 10,000 people in town, 3 fire stations and 50 volunteers. Asst. Chief Bill and his wife took me out to dinner, thank you very much Bill, and we just got back to the station. The FD is doing SCBA donning training. The FF's carry their gear with them and report to the scene here. I'll be on a cot in the station tonight and will be catching up on my latest philosophy book, "The Tibetan Book of the Dead." It's not as weird as it sounds, pretty positive really.

The arch is definitely something that was better than expected. I'm usually one to admire nature's wonders but this was pretty amazing. To consider the whole thing is welded and has withstood a lot of nature's fury is very cool. I took a dip in the Mississippi to cool off and headed west. The river didn't taste as bad as I thought.

I'm going to Wal-Mart tonight to buy some more toys for the kids tomorrow at Univ. of Kansas Burn Center, which is where I'll be tomorrow at 1pm. Can't wait. To see a kid momentarily forget they are laid up inside a hospital because of the excitement of a new toy is priceless. I feel very lucky to be the person who can help make that happen. The media ran great stories on our fundraiser on tv and the paper in Springfield.

We received donations today from the following FF's:

Dennis of Springfield $12, and Rob of the Little Dixie fire Protection District (Mexico, MO) $10. Thank you both VERY much. One thing that is funny about this world, that I have noticed, is that the people who can barely afford to give anything give all they can. It is very humbling.

Hasta Manana de Mexico Missouri,

Miguel

Report from Mike

2007-05-24T17:57:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone,

Mike wasn't having much luck with an internet connection today. So, we did it the old fashioned way ... he called us! :-)

The report:

He made it to Mexico , MO and will be sleeping at the FD tonight.
He had 30 mile per hour head winds all day today
And ... he went to the St. Louis Arch. (So, the photo was NOT a bike part!) :-)

That's all for now!

What up?

2007-05-24T13:56:00.000-04:00

A lot of people keep asking ‘What are the rest of the Mannings doing?’ Well, here we go:

The kids and I are having a blast. I haven’t cut the cord yet (on the electric lawn mower that is.) For the first time in my life I mowed the grass. This is where I thank my two big brothers for keeping me from that chore. I don’t think I’ll use the weed eater, which is probably good since Mike doesn’t let me use the big knives in the kitchen. We have also planted a vegetable garden and a few marigolds. The kids are my big helpers when it comes to grocery shopping. They eat their way through the store while I repeatedly tell them ‘no’ to all the junk food that has the bright colors and pictures of TV characters on them. However, one might ask if life is different without Mike? The answer is a big ’YES!’ Since Mike does all the eating the grocery shopping is much easier now. Sorry to the fire stations that are hosting Mike – he’s your bottomless pit now. Without so much eating going on the dishwasher doesn’t have to be run 3X per day. Laundry is much less frequent. Mike’s clothes are much bigger than the rest of the family’s and take up more room in the washer.

All the silliness aside, we miss our PaPa! We support him 100% but still miss him. We’ll see you in a month. Keep bringing those smiles to everyone. You are doing an amazing thing!

As Billy G says, “Stay Safe” and Siarnicki says “Everyone Goes Home.”

We love you PaPa!

Images from the Road: Mystery Photo from ???? (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-24T12:48:00.000-04:00

Here is an easy one for you ... quick ... where did Mike show up today?

Images from the Road: Mystery Photo from Springfield, IL (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-23T21:34:00.000-04:00

OK everyone ... what is this?

Almost forgot

2007-05-23T20:03:00.000-04:00

Thank you Dave and Jeff of the Germantown FD for giving me $50 for toys. It will be used and appreciated to keep putting smiles on little faces. Thank you both very much.

Thank you to the local Springfield newspaper and ABC 20 in Springfield for airing my story tonight. Let's keep that positive news rolling!

Thank you Panera Bread for offering a healthy alternative to the usual choke and puke fast food crap. Lunch was great.

I've noticed a lot of drivers checking the bike out today - is the bike that cool or are they amazed at the size of the skinny man holding onto it?

Peace out,

mike

Springfield Baby!

2007-05-23T19:34:00.000-04:00

Hello from my wife's birth state. Had a great ride in today and visited the Memorial Hospital where they have an awesome burn unit. I visited with the doctors and nurses there who definitely know what they are doing and do it well. I met a strong young man who was getting released today (Good job brother!) and his spirits were high. His parents presented me with a $500 dollar check for the Phoenix Society, WOW. Thank you both. The head nurse then gave me a $100 towards the fundraiser. WOW, and thank you once again. The more people I meet in the burn community (FF's, nurses, therapists, survivors, family) the more I am impressed by our cohesiveness and hopes to alleviate all concerns for survivors.

Upon arriving at the SFD we went to a cookin' garage fire with exposures. I'm riding with Truck 1 tonight (Pierce platform 110') and just filled up on a great speghetti dinner, thanks fellas.

Riding the motorcycle is definitely a more relaxed way to see the country. I saw some beautiful farms today, ALL CORN FOR 200 MILES.

Dr. Scott gave me a tour of the burn unit today and I couldn't help but imagine what each burn survivor must endure. Battling infection from the get go, repeated garment changes, and heating elements to prevent hypothermia. This occurs twice a day my friends. While we're worrying about what frozen pizza to buy, there are many survivors worrying about how their next dressing change will go. What amazing people, every one of them.

A reminder to first responders - the Dr's and nurses cautioned us on burned individuals being transported to the ER. Use sparing water for pain management, any more endangers the survivor with hypothermia which can lead to a host of problems down the road- and dry dressings of course. Thanks and be safe out there.

Mike

Images from the Road: Springfield, IL Fire Department (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-23T19:29:00.001-04:00

Photo Gallery: Germantown, Ohio May 19th, 2007

2007-05-23T16:53:00.001-04:00

The full album is on FLICKR. Thanks to Marvin King for sharing his photo's!

Images from the Road: Some where between Martinsville and Litchfield (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-23T16:23:00.001-04:00

All - photo's from Mike's cell phone. We will need to wait until he checks in so we can all understand where and what these photos are!

Today Mike started from the Martinsville Fire Department and is stopping at the Springfield Burn Center. He is staying at the Litchfield , IL Fire Department tonight.

Martinsville, IN

2007-05-22T22:20:00.000-04:00

Great to be back on the path today. Had great weather while riding out to Riley Burn Center for Children with Dave and Jeff. We got to give out some toys and hopefully lightened the hearts of the awesome kids we met today. Nurses Kathy and Kim lead a great burn center in Indy and the work they do is amazing. It takes a special person to work in a burn unit.

My good friend Chuck Welch, Ret. Chief of Bloomingburg, IN brought me to the local Shriners Club and made some new friends who support what we're doing. Chuck rocks!

Martinsville FD's local union presented me with a $100 check today for the Phoenix Society! Thank you very much and I'm glad to see that you guys keep your bunkroom at a steamy 45 degrees. There's something to be said for having a cold glass of milk next to your bunk any time you want it.

Thanks for dinner Chief Fraker, you've got a great FD here.

I'm off to Springfield, IL tomorrow on Chief Anding's Harley which topped out today at 126mph, just kidding Chief. Goodnight and God Bless.

Mike

Images from the Road: RILEY/MARTINSVILLE (From Mike's Cell Phone)

2007-05-22T18:43:00.000-04:00

Mike went to the Riley Burn Center in Indianapolis today and is staying at Martinsville FD tonight.

Calling ALL riders

2007-05-20T14:39:00.000-04:00

If you or someone you know would possibly like to ride along for any distance please join us. Please copy the new schedule and press release and pass it on.

When you see the kids faces in the hospital light up it will all be worth it!

Mike

Germantown Festivities

2007-05-20T14:27:00.000-04:00

Thank you Mayor Landis, Germantown Rescue Squad, and the Germantown Fire Fighters for the great cookout and mini-parade yesterday. Jenn made her famous black bean salad and Chief 2 was grillin' and chillin' Whitecastle Style, good eats. I want to thank the Germantown Fire Fighters for their extremely generous donation which brings us closer to the $300 from 330 goal.

I'm starting to heal up a little and can't wait to get back on the Feel the Burn campaign.

Let's keep Columbus, OH Brother FF Mike in our thoughts tomorrow as he undergoes surgery at OSU Hospital. Good luck Mike, if they don't release you soon give us a call, we'll bring the ladder truck - 9th floor right?

$90,000 to go, we can do it!

Mike

Firefighter Harley Schedule

2007-05-20T14:20:00.000-04:00

New and Improved Schedule. This is working out great, we will be able to visit many more hospitals, burn centers, and survivors on the Harley. Yipppeee! I'll be totin' Matchbox cars and candy for all the kids.

5/22 Riley Burn Center in Indianapolis , staying at Martinsville FD that night
5/23 Springfield Burn Center , staying in Litchfield , IL FD that night
5/24 St. Louis Childrens’ Hospital, staying in Mexico , MO that night
5/25 Kansas City , MO area hospitals, Staying at Kansas City FD that night
5/26 Wichita via Christy, staying at Wichita FD that night
5/27 Wichita , KS
5/28 TBD
5/29 Trinidad , CO FD
5/30 Denver , CO , Denver Children’s and U of D, Denver FF Burn Foundation
5/31 Denver , CO
6/1 La Veta, CO FD
6/2 Durango , CO FD
6/3 Durango , CO FD
6/4 Phoenix , AZ , stay at PHX FD
6/5 Phoenix , AZ Maricopa Medical Center
6/6 Las Vegas, NV
6/7 Las Vegas, NV
6/8 Las Vegas , NV Lions Burn Center, stay at LAS FD
6/9 Rachel , NV
6/10 Fresno , CA , Univ Medical Center , stay at Fresno FD
6/11 Glendale , CA , UCI Burn Center, Stay at Glendale FD
6/12 Los Angeles , CA USC LA, Stay at LAFD
6/13 Grossman Burn Center Anaheim CA , Stay at Anaheim FD
6/14 Back to Fresno , CA , long travel day
6/15 Stockton Ca, Stay at FD, long travel day, visiting Bruce
6/16 San Francisco , CA area hospitals, stay at FD
6/17 San Francisco , CA
6/18 Sacramento , CA Sacramento Shrine at UC Davis, FF Burn Foundation
6/19 Sacramento , CA
6/20 SAN JOSE, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center BBQ and Party

SPREAD THE WORD Y'ALL, THE MORE THE MERRIER!

Images from the Road: Coudersport, PA (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-19T22:10:00.001-04:00

Images from the Road: Mike and Mike (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-19T13:44:00.001-04:00

Mike stopped in today at the Ohio State Medical Center. He sent us this photo from his visit with fellow firefighter Michael (Mike) Ream. Mike Ream is a member of the Columbus Fire Department who was burned on duty and is receiving treatment at the center.

FIRE FIGHTER CHALLENGE: $300 from 330 Fire Stations

2007-05-19T11:16:00.000-04:00

When "Feel the Burn 2007" was just an early idea, the Denver Fire Department donated $300 to the Feel the Burn 2007 fundraising effort for The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Following their lead, Columbia and Toledo Firefighters donated $300 as well. Some of these stations have done boot drives or had other types of fundraising events. Some have passed just the hat around fellow Fire Fighter brothers and sisters. We are grateful for each and every dollar!! THANK YOU.

As Mike renews his "feeling the burn" journey, he would like to challenge your Fire station to raise $300 for "Feel the Burn 2007" to help burn survivors. Help your station become a leader in this effort...begin raising $300 now doing your part to further help burn survivors today!

Will you help move the needle? Will your station contribute? Please donate to The Phoenix Society! Call them directly at 1-616-458-2773 or click below to “Donate” button on this blog to donate securely online. Thank you!

The $300 from 330 Fire Fighter Honor Roll:

Denver Fire Fighters Burn Foundation
Road Sprinkler Fitters Local Union No. 669, Columbia, MD
Toledo Firefighters Local 92

Fundraising Update: $10,000 Raised to Help Burn Survivors!

2007-05-19T10:48:00.000-04:00

You have heard it from our coverage in Fire Engineering, but we wanted you to hear it from us - we are already up to $10,000 raised!

THANK YOU TO ALL who have donated. Your CONTRIBUTION IS ALREADY HELPING burn survivors across the country.

IT'S NOT TOO LATE FOR YOU TO STEP-UP. Please donate to The Phoenix Society! Call them directly at 1-616-458-2773 or click below to “Donate” button on this blog to donate securely online.

Aces and Eights

2007-05-18T21:29:00.000-04:00

A huge part of this fundraiser now is Aces and Eights Harley-Davidson of Mason, Ohio (www.a8hd.com). Mike Keeton and Steve Miller squeezed the Firefighter Edition Harley in for service this weekend and are behind our efforts. Thanks and I'll be back in July for that Nightster 1200.

Mahalo

PRESS RELEASE: COLUMBUS FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON DUTY TO RECEIVE SPECIAL VISITOR AS PART OF CROSS COUNTRY RIDE FOR BURN SURVIVORS

2007-05-18T16:57:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER-(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com

COLUMBUS FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON DUTY TO RECEIVE SPECIAL VISITOR AS PART OF CROSS COUNTRY RIDE FOR BURN SURVIVORS

Germantown Firefighter will visit The Ohio State University Medical Center tomorrow

SATURDAY---MAY 19th---NOON--Germantown Firefighter Mike Manning Manning is riding a Harley Davidson "Firefighters Edition" across America to raise donations and awareness for Burn Survivors. Manning who is en route to San Jose, California and will be making a special detour and stopping at The Ohio State Medical Center to visit fellow firefighter Michael Ream on Saturday, May 19th.

Mr. Ream, 36-years old and a member of the Columbus Fire Department, was burned on duty and is receiving treatment.

Originally, Firefighter Manning using a bicycle for his 3,100 mile trip called "Feel THe Burn Ride 07" but a serious injury along the way forced him to trade his two wheel bike for a Harley which is being loaned to Mike by his Chief. Although injured, Mike did not have to quit the ride and found a way to continue. Mike left from Boston on May 8th.

"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 which 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.

Go to Mike's own 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

"THE" Bike: Chief Anding's 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition

2007-05-18T10:25:00.000-04:00

As Mike posted late Wednesday evening, despite a leg injury and saddle sores, Mike is continuing his journey feeling the burn across this great country of ours and raising $100,000 for Burn Survivors.

Thanks to Germantown Fire Chief, Chief Anding, Mike is going to be riding in style to San Jose on his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition! We just had to share the photo of the bike and Chief Anding.

Remember, Mike will be riding into Germantown TOMORROW at 5PM!

For anyone who can make it, please show up at the Germantown fire station at 75 North Walnut street. If you are a burn survivor, Mike and the team would like you 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.

We will be posting and updated schedule for the rest of his ride shortly.

PRESS RELEASE: GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON TREK BUT VOWS TO CONTINUE

2007-05-16T22:37:00.000-04:00

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER—(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com

GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER INJURED ON TREK BUT VOWS TO CONTINUE
Fire Chief Steps In/Welcoming Party Planned

SATURDAY---MAY 19th 5PM—-Germantown Firefighter Mike Manning Manning doesn’t know the word QUIT. Despite a serious injury brought on by bicycling hundreds of miles—-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 bike.

The Chief of the Germantown 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 this weekend as part of the ride schedule.
The ride is called “Feel the Burn 07”. It 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 which 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 “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 own 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 is scheduled for 5pm.

###

There's always an answer

2007-05-16T21:51:00.000-04:00

Let me first thank Chief Kim Jennings for letting me stay at his home Monday night, as well as feeding me, which isn't easy.:-) The Canton FD led me out of town under lights, to be joined by Alba FD, and then Mansfield FD Firefighter Jerry led me into Mansfield and bought me lunch. Thank you for the escort, it was a great mental break to just "ride" and not be listening for 18 wheelers approaching.

After leaving Mansfield in hot temperatures and a 22 mph headwind my body began to reach its breaking point. A saddle sore (http://www.liquicell.com/assets/pdf/Saddle%20Sores%20(P.%20Kortebein).pdf) I had been nursing for 2 days finally became to much to overcome. I pushed and pushed, chewing aspiring and taking breaks. It felt like a lighter was being held under my seat, no matter if I was standing or sitting. I continued riding, tears rolling down my face from the pain, both emotional as well as physical. My legs were strong but it didn't matter. I could not pedal anymore and knew it would be at least a week before I could ride again, and knew it would just come right back in a few days of hot riding.

Selfishly, I wondered for a brief moment if this fundraiser was the biggest mistake of my life. Then I said, "No, that's ridiculous." You can either lead a safe life or an authentic one. You gotta bet big to win big, but you may also lose big. I figured the awareness that needs to be raised for the burn community is worth this gamble, I don't have any pride that can be harmed or ego that can be bruised. It's all or nothing.

I crawled off of my bike and sat on the side of Rt. 6 under the scorching sun weeping for all of the people I felt I was letting down. My sincere hopes of this ride were not to be via the way I had planned and trained for 4 months. The faces of everyone who signed my bike, people who called me on this journey, those who have donated, and supported me were in my mind and I felt terrible, vulnerable. I felt like I was the lowest person on earth. I felt like a fraud. I called my wife crying and apologized to her for this perceived failure. I then called Amy, Jeff, and Kahty apologizing, sobbing, and distraught. I have always accomplished what I have set my mind to do. Whether it be 62 college credits in 10 months, working full time and getting my A + P licence for 2 years while sleeping 4-5 hours a night, moving my house and driving to Texas non-stop all in 42 hours, or teaching myself how to use an English wheel to do an aircraft repair that no one else wanted to do on a time sensitive aircraft. Until now, if I wanted to see it done, I could do it, and no one could tell me otherwise. Well, we all have to change sometime.

A branch must bend with wind so it won't break, and so I must bend with this headwind I am facing. I cannot ride my bike. It hurts too much and in another day or two I would have a heinous infection. So, here is how I must change to make sure this ride continues and the goal of this fundraiser is met:

I must ask for and accept the offered help of others. This started when I called the Coudersport FD chief Andy to come pick me up 50 miles from his station. He is a saint and sent his son Cecil to come get me. Thank you. I have never truly needed the help of others until 3 pm on May 15, 2007. I was immobile and in the middle of nowhere. They fed me a great speghetti dinner and then gave me hotel money so my wife and I could get some sleep when she came to pick me up later in the night. We decided to drive home anyway and I am mailing your money back to you, thank you all for your generosity.

I have always been my hardest critic to the point of perfection. I realized that being angry at myself and my body was not going to bring me closer to this heartfelt mission I need to complete for the benefit of others. I don't care one iota what people think of me in this fundraiser, it has and always will be for the burn survivors. My pride and ego are no where near the equation so I needed to find a way to get to San Jose in a reasonable timeframe. I decided my only option was to ride my Suzuki motorcycle to San Jose. Not as dramatic but sincere nonetheless. If the media doesn't like it they can take a hike, I'm not concerned with uplifting you, I appreciate your coverage but this is not for you. This is for Bruce, Amy, George, Jesse, Hope, Jose, Faith, Joe, and for all burn survivors out there.

I saw my Fire Chief this AM after arriving home late, I humbly broke the news of my injury and my new plan. He immediately insisted I take his 100th Anniversary Harley Ultra Glide Fire Edition to San Jose instead. After debating this offer I decided it was safer and more fitting to what we are trying to do here. Thank you Chief Anding. As I was standing in his barn debating my decision, I realized that many people I have known over the years have offered to help me and then puilled the rug out from under me, leaving me skeptical of most people and their intentions. Effectively enabling my innate personality characteristics to make myself an emotional island, free from most pain but experiencing little pleasure as well. I have never let anyone "in" besides my wife, she is the only one who has always stood with me and never screwed me over. Thank you Chief Scott for helping me grow and complete this mission.

That being said, I am in uncharted territory for Mike Manning tonight. I am accepting the help of others and trusting them in the process. I am allowing myself to depend on others. I understand now that in this short journey, as well as the jouney that we call life, we must enlist a team of people to help us live, survive, and enjoy our brief time here on earth.
Good night all and I'll resume the ride on Tuesday AM.

Again, all are welcome to ride with me. I know there are a lot more motorcyclists than cyclists out there. C'mon, help me make lemonade out lemons and show our support, both in motorcycles and in fundraising dollars.

Love to you all, I hope you are still behind this, I sure as hell am,

Mike

Media Coverage: Fire Engineering's Week One Coverage

2007-05-16T11:58:00.000-04:00

Feel the Burn '07 Update: Week One

Media Coverage: Williamsport, PA and Canton, PA

2007-05-15T15:08:00.000-04:00

Williamsport, PA - Sun-Gazette
Firefighter rides bicycle into northcentral Pennsylvania on a trek to raise money for those injured by flames

‘Feel the Burn’ rider working his way to Canton

‘Feel the Burn’ rider arrives in Canton

Another Injury :-(

2007-05-15T14:50:00.000-04:00

Folks,

We just got another call from Mike. He is injured again/the first injury didn't quite heal. Mike is looking at his options right now on how best to manage this.

Stand By.

Mike we are VERY proud of you. Hang in there!

Images from the Road (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-15T12:51:00.000-04:00

Mike just found a small patch of wireless connectivity. He just sent us these photo's from his cell phone that he took yesterday.

We don't know who is who or where the big long hill is at this point - so we will need to wait to hear from Mike the details of these great photo's!

PRESS RELEASE: GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER ON CROSS COUNTRY BICYLE RIDE STOPS HOME FOR SUPPORT

2007-05-15T12:39:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
JEFF DERDERIAN/COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
PHONE NUMBER—(401) 441-7823
jeffderderian@hotmail.com

GERMANTOWN FIREFIGHTER ON CROSS COUNTRY BICYLE RIDE STOPS HOME FOR SUPPORT

A welcoming party at the Germantown Fire Department he serves is planned

SATURDAY---MAY 19th----Germantown, Ohio Firefighter Mike Manning is making a stop at his hometown fire station ON MAY 19TH as he makes his way across America on his bicycle trek. Manning is biking from Boston to San Jose, California to raise funding for burn survivors. Manning left from Boston on May 8th beginning his 3,100 mile journey.

The ride is called “Feel the Burn 07”. It 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’s goal is to raise $100,000. When he left Boston, by the time he was out of the city limits, donations had already reached nearly $10,000. All the money raised is going to The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The trip has not been without challenges. In just his second day on the road, Mike had to deal with a broke bike and an injured leg. But after one day of rest, Mike is back on the road and feeling pumped about crossing the finish line at a burn center in California on or about June 22nd. “The
support so far has been overwhelming---I’m hopeful people will support this cause as much as possible so I can reach our goal of raising $100,000” Manning said. “I’m so excited to be circling through my hometown and seeing my fellow firefighters and to tell them about my journey so far”.

The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors is dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. It’s goal is to advance recovery resources and provide experiences to help burn survivors renew their spirit and return to life. “Mike’s efforts will do so much for the entire burn community and help us fund programs like attending World Burn Congress which is an invaluable resource and gathering event held every year for survivors” said Phoenix-Society Executive Director Amy Acton.

Also, Germantown Mayor Ted Landis will also welcome Mike at the fire station and present with him with a special award for all of his efforts.

Mike’s “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 Mike’s bike for good luck. In addition, Ohio burn center representatives will be on hand to discuss why this ride is so crucial.

Go to Mike’s own 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 or to get more information on this “Welcome Back to Germantown” event—call---(401) 441-7823

Mike's arrivial is scheduled for 5pm.

Schedule Update: Mike is Bound and Determined to Get to Germantown on the 19th!

2007-05-15T09:52:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Everyone:

Well, as of this writing, we do not know exactly how Mike will do it. But, he has told us he wants to be in Germantown on the 19th of May. This will involve not having a rest day and probably adjusting his route. As we get the particulars, we will let everyone know.

Thanks for all the comments and encouragement for Mike!

Voodoo Child

2007-05-14T18:25:00.001-04:00

Well, I was chopping down mountains today. Felt strong after a few miles, my body did not want to get out of bed today. After leaving Dalton's mid 30 degree temps I was on PA 87 most of the day. Today was the hardest day I've ever had in my 21 years of road cycling. Steep hills up to 2 miles long kept coming and coming, as well as logging trucks and old roads. This is some of the most beautiful part of the US that I have seen. High rounded emerald mountains with farms and red farmhouses, crystal clear rivers and streams, deer, and birds.With the wind in my face I brought myself closer to San Jose one crank at a time.

I stopped briefly in Dushore (halfway between Dalton and Canton) today and got a tour of their fire station by Lou. They have one truck that still uses wooden ground ladders, cool. The local paper did a small piece on me and the owner of the paper, Ron, bought me a great lunch at Pam's Restaurant.

Note to cyclists: PA 87 has a no leash law. I was actively chased by 6 dogs today (I have only been chased by 5 dogs total in all my years), whattayagonnado?

I have not had cell phone service for most of the day including where I am now in Canton so pics will have to wait, I'm told to expect the same service tomorrow. Chief Kim Jennings and the Canton FD escorted me into town about an hour ago and the Jennings family had generously opened their home to me. Canton is celebrating their 125th year of fire service and has refurbished their old fire bell as well as their old 1920's LaFrance fire truck. Both newspapers in town interviewed me upon arrival and Kim's wife is making speghetti tonight.

I hope this post finds everyone well and thanks for checking in. Till tomorrow....

Hi to all of the kids at Boston Shriners Hospital, keep smiling.:-)

-Mike

This one's for you Bruce!

2007-05-13T20:26:00.000-04:00

Dalton, PA! Made it after 11 grueling hours on the bike today. Restaurants were gone after the Port Jarvis area, so it was gas station food and Gatorade until I got to Dalton. Chief Bob, his wife Nancy, and their daughter Tammy have let me sleep in their 1800's farmhouse tonight. What a generous family.

Dalton FD has a '71 La France, the kind I learned to first operate and drive as a young FF. Brought back memories when I sat in the open cab. They also have a Seagrave ladder and an International tanker w/ pump and roll, and a front bumper mounted pump panel.

I dedicate every pedal stroke today to my friend Bruce, a burn survivor who called me over the weekend. Bruce became a burn survivor in a town I went through today. I went over two extra big hills to take a picture of the intersection where Bruce rose from the ashes. Thank you Bruce for your inspiring and supportive words which pulled me through some tough climbs today. See you in San Jose my friend.

I'm absolutely exhausted. The wind was blustery and in my face all day. I was pedaling hard on some downhills and barely made it over 13mph. I'm slamming aspirin and going to bed in a minute. Good night and Happy Mothers Day.

P.S.:I would also like to express my love and thanks to my lovely wife, whom I miss very much. She has made me who I am today and has supported everything I've ever wanted to do, even after all the shenanigans that can sometimes follow. She is the perfect girl for me and makes me happy. I hope I bring her the same joy she brings to my life.

Images From the Road: Bloomberg, NY to Dalton, PA (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-13T14:52:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!

Here are two images Mike sent from his ride going from Bloomingburg, NY to Dalton, PA.

This one came in around 7:30AM

This one came in around 9:30AM with a note that he was entering PA

4PM

4:45 - DALTON!

Kathy and Jeff

2007-05-12T19:59:00.000-04:00

Thank you for your help and awesome work. You are both very special people to me.

Bloomingburg, NY

2007-05-12T19:38:00.000-04:00

Wassuppp! Well, after an extremely frustrating delay Thursday and Friday, I'm back in black. I have realized that I can get injured and things are beyond my control - dare I say I am human? I guess I am, I have hung up my cape. I made the jaunt over the Hudson River today (pic w/ my bike through a stone doorway, the start of the FDR Bridge going over the river.) Soon after, I ate a donated french toast breakfast (Yes, I AM intercontinental when I eat french toast) by a sweetie pie named Kathy at a local diner who gave me great directions. Then rolled through some beautiful countryside in upstate NY into Bloomingburg. If it weren't for the delay I would have missed the hundreds of acres of apple blossoms which smelled amazing. One of those aromas that instantly makes you smile.

Bloomingburg is a Fire Company which serves 10k people and has an impressive fleet of Pierce Engines, wicked clean. I met Chief Dempsey and some of the department at the station.

Due to my delay, (BFD had originally had a dinner planned for me at their Firehouse Thurs.) we went to a surprise birthday party where the food was awesome and the drinks were cold. I'm all carb loaded up for tomorrow, mountains mountains mountains. I'll be staying at Johnny's house tonight and off early in the AM. The FF's have tweaked my route and have sent me on a longer but flatter route through Port Jarvis NY.

Observations on the trip so far:

-All roads in CT that are not interstates are poorly marked and all intersections in CT must involve 5 of these unmarked roads

-Red Sox fans make the best apparatus drivers (You know what I'm talkin' about Ken in HFD)

-CT has underated hills in the west

-When your jacket hangs off of your pack, over your rear tire, it will smell like roadkill when you put it on after 4 days

-don't rely on GPS, word of mouth is more reliable (so long as you don't take advice from someone you just asked directions from says "You know where your goin'?" WTF?

-all people have goodness in them somewhere, sometimes it may just take a stinky unshaven man in spandex to bring it out

Schedule Update

2007-05-12T17:12:00.000-04:00

All: We have updated the daily schedule HERE to reflect changes due to the past 2 days due to equipment problems.

Images From the Road: Bloomingberg, NY (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-12T16:34:00.000-04:00

Mike sent us these photo's from the road today from Bloomberg, NY.

Mystery Photo From Mike (He's on the road again!)

2007-05-12T09:36:00.000-04:00

Mike just sent us this photo from his phone ... any guesses where this is?

'Bout Time!

2007-05-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

MIKE UPDATE: He is still in Hartford, CT with a broken bike and injured leg

2007-05-11T11:15:00.000-04:00

We just talked to Mike.

His bike has a broken front bike derailer (the part of the bike that switches the gears). Mike also told us that his leg got hurt from Branford to Hartford due to (in his words), "hitting the hills to hard".

He just picked up the part and expects to start toward Bloomingburg, NY as soon as he installs everything. His leg swelling is down - so he expects we will be ready to go in the morning.

When we hear more - we will give you all an update.

THE SCHEDULE IS NOW 2 DAYS DELAYED. WE WILL UPDATE THE SCHEDULE ACCORDINGLY ONCE MIKE STARTS IN THE AM.

Burn Survivor Story: Winson Chen

2007-05-10T14:08:00.000-04:00

(Courtesy of the Phoenix Society and Steve Lobel, author of "Recognition Beyond Burned: Portraits of Survival, Rebirth & Hope")

I met my challenge driving home from Atlanta on October 26, 2002. It came in the form of a high-speed collision with an eighteenwheeler. I am unsure who was at fault. I burned alive for fifteen minutes before the fire truck arrived. I was rushed to the hospital and announced dead on arrival, but the burn unit revived me and kept me in a morphine coma for two months.

My body was asleep, but I lived in my dreams. I went to school, visited my parents, dated my girlfriend; everything felt real. I imagined I went west with a gang of credit cards, charged mansions, yachts and parties, and then skipped out on the bill. The cops chased me down and sent me to jail. I awoke to my father telling me it had all been a figment of my imagination. I was confused and frightened. My pain was indescribably intense. After much explaining from loved ones, I slowly became aware of my situation.

I was mad—mad at the truck driver, mad at the world, mad at God. How had I been named the delegate to suffer? I contemplated suicide daily. The hospital staff had to tie my hands down. Then the denial kicked in. I thought, if I could dream in color for two months and believe it was real, who’s to say that being here like this wasn’t just another chapter? This wasn’t happening to me. I still dream of one day awakening from the nightmare into my old life.

Embarrassment overwhelmed me. I couldn’t do anything for myself. In the hospital, I had to be walked, fed and wiped. At home, my mother had to bathe, clothe and bandage me. Then depression took its turn. I wasn’t a bad-looking guy before the accident. True, appearances aren’t everything, but they are something. We more easily accept those we perceive as aesthetically pleasing than those we see as deformed or challenged.

I had to take my grief by the horns. Complaining changes nothing. I am alive, I have family and friends who care for me, and I have purpose. I still get looks of distaste and bewilderment, but I don’t hold individuals accountable for their responses. It’s human nature to look at what’s different. Everyone worries about what to say to survivors, but often it’s not about what you say. Just being there and listening can help more than you expect.

My name is Winson Chen.

Media Coverage: Hartford, CT

2007-05-10T13:15:00.000-04:00

Cross-Country Ride Leads Man To Hartford

Firefighter Raising Funds For Burn Victims

PRESS RELEASE: Cross-Country Ride for Burn Survivors Stops In Scranton Pennsylvania

2007-05-10T12:53:00.000-04:00

Cross-Country Ride for Burn Survivors Stops In Pennsylvania this Week!

Firefighter Mike Manning Rides Through Scranton To Support Burn Survivors

IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:
Jeff Derderian/Community Volunteer
401-441-7823
jeffderderian @ hotmail. com

EDITOR’S NOTES:
Interview/Photo Opportunity – Interviews with Mike Manning call 401-441-7823 to schedule.

May 11th – Firefighter Mike Manning will be stopping in Scranton PA THIS FRIDAY—May 11th as part of a 3,100 mile cross-country trek from Boston to San Jose. The inaugural annual event, called “Feel the Burn ’07,” is part of Manning’s mission to raise awareness and funding for burn survivors and the treatments that can help them.

After selling his VW van for $1,000 and donating it to a burn survivor he had never met before, Mike wanted to do something on a much bigger scale.

Manning’s 40 city journey will take him across 13 states in 45 days to generate support for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, a national non-profit burn survivor assistance and advocacy group based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Every penny collected towards the $100,000 goal will directly aid burn survivors with the costly medical care and treatment necessary for a full recovery.

“The resilience to the emotional and physical pain, which is indescribable, makes burn survivors the strongest people I have ever met,” Manning said. “As a firefighter, you rescue people, often never knowing the outcome. I want this ride to offer the necessary support to bring survivors full circle from rescue to return to society.”

Amy Acton Executive Director of the Phoenix Society adds, “Though a burn injury can be devastating physically and emotionally, access to quality care, support and resources enables you to survive and thrive after a burn injury. The costly nature of medical essentials, such as burn recovery masks and compression garments, are often unexpected and overwhelming expenses for burn survivors.” “Mike’s will and determination will help benefit the entire burn survivor community”.

Donations for “Feel the Burn ‘07” can be made at the event or through the Web at www.phoenix-society.org

Check out Mike’s exclusive Blog at www.feeltheburn07.blogspot.com for live updates, photos, and Mike’s own diary.

To interview Mike, please call 401-441-7823

###

HARTFORD ROCKS

2007-05-09T20:39:00.001-04:00

"A" Shift has graciously welcomed me into their station today. We have been running the Tactical Rescue Truck #1 today and filled up on some amazing lasagna from the Captain.

The NFFF tour bus stopped by this afternoon on the tail end of their whistle stop tour (http://www.firehero.org/) which coincidentally began in San Jose last month. I'll plan better next year and draft their bus across the USA.:-)

Tomorrow will be my first introduction to biking in Appalachia while traveling to Bloomingburg, NY. I'm ready for it and will remind myself of someone's advice when I need to slow down to conserve energy for the other 2950 miles to go, "It's not a race, it's a journey." I've already met hundreds of people who have been supportive and smiling on this journey - La vita e' bella.

I just got word that we have raised over $10k including the money the Hartford FF Union and Hartford Emerald Society comitted to donating today. Thank you for having me Hartford.

I also want to personally thank Amy for lending me her anchor with a poem:

Anchors are meant to hold a boat still
But this one pushes me o'er
Anchors are heavy and break waters will
But this one's light as a clover
Over the mountains it makes me float
When I feel I can't give anymore
Something stronger than wind is moving my boat
This anchor is what I adore

Images from the Road: Hartford, CT. (FROM MIKE)

2007-05-09T18:35:00.000-04:00

Mike sent us these images to post for him from the road today in Hartford.

DAY 7 – May 14th: Bike Route Dalton, PA to Canton, PA

2007-05-09T17:38:00.000-04:00

NOTE TO BIKERS: Mike will be riding solo. He welcomes any and all bikers and bike clubs/groups to join him at any point along his journey across country. His goal is to leave around 8AM . If you want to ride with him, please arrive before then around 7:30.

NOTE TO ANYONE TAKING PHOTOS: If you can, please post any photo's or video on YouTube.Com, Flickr.com, or any other photo/video sharing site. Leave a comment on this blog letting us know and we will link to your pictures or video from the blog.

NOTE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DONATE: Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000 during his ride across the country. If you want to donate, please help burn survivors. Donate NOW.
****************************************************************

START: Dalton FD, 109 S Turnpike Rd, Dalton, PA 18414

- Mike will leave around 8AM-ish and will exit Dalton west on 632
- He will go through Osterholt, West on 87 and continue through Russell Hill, Lovelton, Dushore, Estella and arrive in Canton.
- Mike estimates that it will take 8-10 hours to go from Dalton to Canton.

END: Innes Fire Company, 101 Park Pl., Canton, PA 17724

DAY 6 – May 13th: Bike Route Bloomingburg, NY to Dalton, PA

2007-05-09T17:14:00.000-04:00

NOTE TO BIKERS: Mike will be riding solo. He welcomes any and all bikers and bike clubs/groups to join him. His goal is to leave around 8AM . If you want to ride with him, please arrive before then around 7:30.

NOTE TO ANYONE TAKING PHOTOS: If you can, please post any photo's or video on YouTube.Com, Flickr.com, or any other photo/video sharing site. Leave a comment on this blog letting us know and we will link to your pictures or video from the blog.

NOTE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DONATE: Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000 during his ride across the country. If you want to donate, please help burn survivors. Donate NOW.
******************************************************************************************

START: Bloomingburg FD, PO Box 274, Bloomingburg, NY 12721

- Mike will leave around 8-ish and will leave Bloomingburg, South on 209 then west.
- He will go through Westbrookville, Forestburgh, Glen Spey and Narrowsburg
- Mike will then enter PA via Atco PA and go West on Rt. 6.
- He will go through Honesdale PA, Waymart PA, then South on 171 through Jermyn PA, and then take Rt. 632 into Dalton.
- Mike estimates that it will take 8-10 hours to go from Bloomingburg to Dalton. HE WILL BE STOPPING IN SCRANTON, PA during his ride. TBD on exact time.

END: Dalton FD, 109 S Turnpike Rd, Dalton, PA 18414

DAY 5 – May 12th: Bike Route Hartford, CT to Bloomingburg, NY

2007-05-09T16:33:00.000-04:00

NOTE TO BIKERS: Mike will be riding solo. He welcomes any and all bikers and bike clubs/groups to join him. His goal is to leave around 8AM . If you want to ride with him, please arrive before then around 7:30.

NOTE TO ANYONE TAKING PHOTOS: If you can, please post any photo's or video on YouTube.Com, Flickr.com, or any other photo/video sharing site. Leave a comment on this blog letting us know and we will link to your pictures or video from the blog.

NOTE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DONATE: Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000 during his ride across the country. If you want to donate, please help burn survivors. Donate NOW.

*******************************************************************************

START: Hartford FD, 275 Pearl St., Hartford, CT 06103

- Mike will leave Hartford on Rt. 4 West (He is estimating 8-ish AM)

- He will go through Burlington, Litchfield, Bantam, New Preston

- Mike will then go through South Kent, Gaylordsville, and Menter on NY State 55.

- On Rt. 55 North, he will go through Pawling continuing through Billings, Poughkeepsie, Clintondale, Gardiner and ending in Bloomingburg, New York.

- Mike will arrive at the Bloomingburg Fire Department approx 8-10 hours after he leaves Hartford.

END: Bloomingburg FD, PO Box 274, Bloomingburg, NY 12721

UPDATED SCHEDULE

2007-05-09T16:05:00.000-04:00

Mike Manning: UPDATED Feel the Burn DAILY Schedule

All – this is the NEW detailed schedule as of May 12th, 2007. Due to equipment problems we have been pushed back by 2 days.

NOTE TO BIKERS: Mike will be riding solo. He welcomes any and all bikers and bike clubs/groups to join him at any point along his journey across country. His goal is to leave around 8AM from each of the fire stations below. If you want to ride with him, please arrive before then around 7:30.

NOTE TO ANYONE TAKING PHOTOS ALONG THE RIDE: If you can, please post any photo's or video on YouTube.Com, Flickr.com, or any other photo/video sharing site. Leave a comment on this blog letting us know and we will link to your pictures or video from the blog.

NOTE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DONATE: Mike’s goal is to raise $100,000 during his ride across the country. If you want to donate, please help burn survivors. Donate NOW.

DATE	DAY	START	FINISH	Where Mike Will Stay
8-May	Day 1	Boston, MA	Branford, CT	Branford FD
		10AM Press Conference and Send off from Shriners Burn Center		45 North Main St
				Branford, CT 06405
				(Thank you, John Hines)

				Detailed Bike Route HERE
9-May	Day 2	Branford, CT	Hartford, CT	Hartford FD
				275 Pearl St.
				Hartford, CT 06103
				(Thank you, Lt. Taylor)
10-May	Day 3	DELAYED	EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS
11-May	Day 4	DELAYED	EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS
12-May	Day 5	Hartford, CT	Bloomingburg, NY	Bloomingburg FD
				PO Box 274,
				Bloomingburg, NY 12721
				(Thank you, Tom Dempsey)

				Detailed Bike Route
13-May	Day 6	Bloomingburg, NY	Dalton, PA	Dalton FD
				109 S Turnpike Rd,
				Dalton, PA- 18414
				(Thank you, Chief Carpenter)

				Detailed Bike Route
14-May	Day 7	Dalton, PA	Canton, PA	Innes Fire Company,
				101 Park Pl.
				Canton, PA 17724
				(Thank you, Chief Ken Jennings)

				Detailed Bike Route
15-May	Day 8	Canton, PA	Coudersport	Coudersport FD
				325 Port Allegany Rd
				Coudersport, PA 16915
				(Thank you, Chief Andy)
16-May	Day 9	Coudersport	Sigel, PA	Sigel FD and with Mr. Luther Yoas
				Rt. 949 South Hwy
				Sigel, PA
				(Thank you, Luther Yoas)
17-May	Day 10	REST DAY	REST DAY
18-May	Day 11	Sigel, PA	Petersburg, OH	Springfield Township FD
				13885 Youngstown Pittsburgh Rd
				Petersburg, OH 44454
				(Thank you, Chief Hughes)
19-May	Day 12	Petersburg, OH	Millersburg, OH	Holmes Fire District #1
				8478 State Rt. 39
				Millersburg, OH 44654
				(Thank you)
20-May	Day 13	Millersburg, OH	Circleville, OH	Circleville FD
				1220 S Court St.
				Circleville, OH 43113-2109
				(Thank you, Chief Tener)
21-May	Day 14	Circleville, OH	Germantown OH	Mike will arrive at
				Germantown FD
				75 N. Walnut St.,
				Germantown OH, 45327
				(He is staying in his own bed for 2 nights!)
22-May	Day 15	REST DAY	REST DAY
23-May	Day 16	Germantown OH	Martinsville, IN	Martinsville FD
				59 S Jefferson St.
				Martinsville, IN 46151
				(Thank you, Chief Fraker)
24-May	Day 17	Martinsville, IN	Yale, IL	Willow Hill, IL 62481
25-May	Day 18	Yale, IL	Litchfield, IL	City of Litchfield FD
				201 E Edwards
				Litchfield, IL 62056-2046
26-May	Day 19	REST DAY	REST DAY
27-May	Day 20	Litchfield, IL	Mexico, MO	Little Dixie Fire Protection District
				415 N Agricultural
				Mexico, MO 65265
				(Thank you, Chief Hoover)
28-May	Day 21	Mexico, MO	Clinton, MO	Clinton FD
				301 S Washington
				Clinton, MO 64735
				(Thank you, Chief Ritchey)
29-May	Day 22	Clinton, MO	Fall River, KS	Fall River FD
				Merchant St.
				Fall River, KS 67047
				(Thank you, Bob Elrod)
30-May	Day 23	Fall River, KS	Argonia, KS	City of Argonia FD
				22 N Main St.,
				Argonia, KS 67004
				(Thank you, Chief Paul)
31-May	Day 24	Argonia, KS	Ashland, KS	Ashland Rural FD
				703 Main St.
				Ashland, KS 67831
				(Thank you, David Redgar)
1-Jun	Day 25	Ashland, KS	Ulysses, KS	Grant County FD
				1225 N Colorado
				Ulysses, KS 67880
				(Thank you, Chief John Crosby)
2-Jun	Day 26	REST DAY	REST DAY
3-Jun	Day 27	Ulysses, KS	Kim, CO	Kim FD
				Kim, CO 81049-0157
4-Jun	Day 28	Kim, CO	Trinidad, CO	Trinidad FD
				1605 Santa Fe Trail,
				Trinidad, CO 81082
				(Thank you, Chief Bulson)
5-Jun	Day 29	Trinidad, CO	La Veta, CO	La Veta FD
				111 S Main
				La Veta, CO 81055-0044
				(Thank you, Sue Pezze)
6-Jun	Day 30	La Veta, CO	Monte Vista, CO	Monte Vista FD
				401 S Broadway
				Monte Vista, CO 81144-0187
				(Thank you, Charles Ercher)
7-Jun	Day 31	Monte Vista, CO	Pagosa Springs, CO	Pagosa FD
				91 N Pagosa Blvd.
				Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
8-Jun	Day 32	Pagosa Springs, CO	Durango, CO	Durango Fire and Rescue
				142 Sheppard Dr.
				Durango, CO 81303
9-Jun	Day 33	REST DAY	REST DAY
10-Jun	Day 34	Durango, CO	Teec Nos Pos, AZ (Navajo Nation)	Navajo Nation
				Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514
				(Thank you, Richard)
11-Jun	Day 35	Teec Nos Pos, AZ (Navajo Nation)	Kayenta FD, AZ	Kayenta FD
				PO Box 188, Arizona 86033
12-Jun	Day 36	Kayenta FD, AZ	Page, AZ	City of Page FD
				808 Coppermine Rd.
				Page, AZ 86040
				(Thank you, Capt. Reed )
13-Jun	Day 37	Page, AZ	Kanab, UT	Kanab FD
				76 N Main
				Kanab, UT 84741
14-Jun	Day 38	Kanab, UT	St. George, UT	City of St. George FD
				51 S 1000 E
				St. George, UT 84770
15-Jun	Day 39	REST DAY	REST DAY
16-Jun	Day 40	St. George, UT	Panaca, NV	Panaca FD
				Panaca, NV 89042
17-Jun	Day 41	Panaca, NV	Rachel, NV	Little A’Le Inn Hote,
				Rachel, NV,
18-Jun	Day 42	Rachel, NV	Tonopah, NV	Tonopah FD
				100 Erie Main
				St.,Tonopah, NV 89049-1128
19-Jun	Day 43	Tonopah, NV	Benton, CA	White Mtn. Fire Protection District, 24931 N Hwy 6
				Benton, CA 93515
20-Jun	Day 44	Benton, CA	Tuolumne, CA	Tuolumne Fire Protection District, 18690 Main St.
				Tuolumne, CA 95379
21-Jun	Day 45	Tuolumne, CA	Groveland, CA	Groveland FD
				18930 Hwy 120
				Groveland, CA 95321
22-Jun	Day 46	Groveland, CA	San Andreas, CA	San Andreas Fire Protection District, 37 Church Hill Rd,San Andreas, CA 95249
23-Jun	Day 47	San Andreas, CA	Sacramento, CA	Sacramento FD
				1231 I St.
				Sacramento, CA 95814-2933
24-Jun	Day 48	Sacramento, CA	San Jose, CA	San Jose FD
				4 N Second St.
				San Jose, CA 95113

Media Coverage: Branford, CT Welcome

2007-05-09T11:24:00.000-04:00

Firefighter Mike Manning's Ride For Burn Victims

BRANFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

2007-05-09T08:51:00.000-04:00

What a great day. This is what it's all about. Thank you to all the burn survivors who signed the bike yesterday and to the therapists and nurses who rode with me for a while from the Shrine. Your signatures and iron will pulled me over some heartbreaker hills yesterday as my legs were trying to cramp up on me.

BFD brought me into town with a kick butt Harley escort from a few of their FF's. Thank you to all who organized and showed up for the party at the American Legion Hall. Pipers were pipin', drummers were drummin' - AWESOME! BFD raised a ton of money for the fundraiser and is counting it as we speak. WE are ALL behind each and every burn survivor - the Phoenix Society, healthcare community, firefighters and their families. HELP AND SUPPORT ARE ON THE WAY.

I'm on to Hartford this AM after a nice pancake breakfast with my brothers. See you there!

-Mike

Photo Gallary - Day 1 Boston

2007-05-08T23:16:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who took photo's today!!

NOTE TO ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Let us know if you post photo's online so we can link to them here. All you need to do is post a comment below as to where to link to your photo's and any info you want to share. We moderate/approve all comments. We do that to avoid spam. But if you are shy and just want to notify us and not have your post go live ... we can accomodate that ... just let us know!

From Kathy Sexton, Middleton, MA: Photos from the Kick off event at the Shriners Hospital for Children

Media Coverage: Boston Kick Off

2007-05-08T18:35:00.000-04:00

Firefighter Kicks Off Cross-Country Bicycle Ride For Burn Survivors

Quincy Native To Raise National Awareness

*********************************************************************

"Feeling the burn: Firefighter rides for a cause"
By LANE LAMBERT, The Patriot Ledger

*********************************************************************

Ohio Firefighter Bikes for Burn Survivors

A Great Send Off in Boston!

2007-05-08T17:59:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone at Shriners, the Phoenix Society, the Boston Firefighters Association and Department, and most importantly, to all the burn survivors who showed up at the press conference this morning to offer your support. This ride is symbolic of your journey. May we inspire everyone who hears of this journey to donate to help all burn survivors.

Quincy native & firefighter begins nationwide bike ride May 8th/Boston

2007-05-07T13:18:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Jeff Derderian/Community Volunteer
401-441-7823
jeffderderian @ hotmail.com

Quincy Native & Firefighter to begin Bike Trek for Burn Survivors

3,100 mile ride starts at Shriners Hospitals for Children in Boston

Quincy native now Ohio Firefighter Mike Manning kicks-off his awareness and donation drive for burn survivors as he pedals across America to benefit The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors. Mike will take 7 weeks to bike from coast to coast stopping at fire stations and burn centers along his route to meet his goal of raising $100,000. After selling his own personal van on E-Bay to help a burn survivor, Mike started training for something bigger and as a first responder , he wanted to help people in their recovery and return to life.

Come hear Mike’s inspiring story and watch as Mike’s fellow firefighters from the Boston Fire Department cheer him on as he and members of Shriners Hospitals for Children ride with him out of the city. Mike will also have his own special cheerleading squad led by some of the children at Shriners Hospitals for Children.

WHAT: "Feel the Burn 07" kick off

WHERE: Shriners Hospital for Children—51 Blossom Street (outside)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 8th—10:00am

For more information on Mike’s cross country ride please go to Mike’s own biog. where you can track his progress state by state at: www.feeltheburn2007.blogspot.com You can also learn more about

Mike’s ride at The Phoenix-Society for Burn Survivors at www.phoenix-society.org. To interview Mike, please call 401-441-7823