Bikers buying "Hearts for Hospice"

Shelby, NC - Several local biker organizations recently came together to help make a Hospice patient's wish come true. Kim Messick learned of Caroline McAlister's wish while cleaning her room one day. "Mama Ann" as she is better known, shared with Kim how much she would love to hear the sound of motorcycles one last time. Messick shared the conversation with Angela Hollifield, a Certified Nursing Assistant with Hospice, who is also a member of Cleveland County Concerned Bikers Association. Angela's husband Skip Hollifield is the President of the group and together they began calling other local motorcycle groups to help make Mama Ann's wish come true.
Within one week, they had the support of Windjammers, CCIB, Wings of Eagles, ST12, Guardians of The Children, Carolina Faith Riders, UYA, Gargoyles, Crimson Crusaders, Sons of Thunder, and more. Everyone was instructed to meet at the old Wal-Mart parking lot at 2pm on Saturday, January 31st where they would have a police escort to Wendover Hospice House.
Over 95 bikers showed up to greet Mama Ann and show their support. The look on her face was priceless as each biker lined up to give her a hug before they left. There was hardly a dry eye in this group of tough men and women. Mama Ann was even able to take a spin on Skip Hollifield's bike
and gave everyone cheering her on a big thumbs up as she passed by. Hearts for Hospice were also sold in honor of this special lady to be displayed in her room.
To see pictures and video of this memorable ride, please visit our Facebook page. For more information about Hospice Cleveland County, please call 704-487-4677 or visit our website at www.hospicecares.cc.

Submitted by Pam Isaacs