Some people leave this life way too early. They are not easily forgotten. Erica McGuire is one of those people. Yesterday marked the second anniversary of her death, and Sunday, Aug. 21 will mark the second year people will be coming together to ride their motorcycles in her memory and making a difference.
I sat with Erica’s father, Paul “Mugsy” McGuire recently to chat about the upcoming ride. This was not the first time I’ve done that. Last year we talked about Erica, her life and death. This year we talked about the future. Time does not always heal all wounds. When you lose a child, you lose most, if not all, of your heart.
“The most important thing about Erica was that on the balloon release on her birthday, I realized just how many people’s lives she touched and how many people still think of her and remember her,” Mugsy said.
It’s often that way with shining stars.
Erica was killed in a motorcycle accident on Aug. 16, 2009. She left behind a grieving father and two young sons, Jared, who is now seven, and Jimmy, four. Last year’s ride went to help fund their educations and basic needs. This year, the proceeds from the run will benefit Marley’s Mission.
“This year we are not only working to keep her memory alive, but to donate money to Marley’s Mission,” Mugsy said. “Erica would like that her memory will help kids.”
Marley’s Mission uses horses as therapy animals for traumatized kids. You can find out more about Marley’s Mission at www.marleysmission.com.
In his very humble way, Mugsy explained that he didn’t want people to focus on Erica and the money going to her sons.
“Instead of giving it to the boys, we’re donating it to a charity, the boys are doing fine,” their grandfather said.
Mugsy took them up to Marley’s Mission to see where the money was going, and the boys actually got to ride the horses and see firsthand where the proceeds will be going. I’m not sure they understand all of what’s happening, but this is such a great lesson of giving in action. I’m sure they will grow up valuing the work being done this weekend. They will definitely be at the ride/picnic.
Sunday’s ride starts at the Parker House (12 E. Parker St., Scranton). It is a poker-run event, and registration is from 10 a.m.-noon; the last bike needs to be in by 5 p.m. The cost is $10 per rider and $10 per passenger. There will be music, games and a picnic, which starts at 2 p.m.; walk-ins for the picnic are welcome for a $10 admission. For more information, call Sharon at 570.840.6707 or Mugsy at 386.214.7955.
Last year, Mugsy was featured in the PennDOT video for the Live Free Ride Alive video and website that promotes motorcycle safety by having families and survivors retell stories. Mugsy’s very poignant story relates the tale of Erica’s accident. It’s a must see. You can find it at www.livefreeridealive.com.
Mugsy’s last comment to me was a heart breaker:
“Every night as I go to bed, there is a picture of her on my nightstand. I kiss it goodnight and tell her I love her.”
Erica lives on in the lives of her father, her sons and the people that all come to help raise money for this very worthy charity. A fitting tribute to a life cut short.
Motorcycles are everywhere, look twice and save a life.
w
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