Please meet Andriana Moschouris

Every day in the U.S. 10 children are diagonised with brain tumors. Andriana was living a normal life of an 11 year old girl growing up in Clearwater, Florida. As she entered the 3rd grade her life, and her family's life was about to change forever . . .

"I began getting migraine headaches that forced me to vomit. For six weeks, my family and I sought out dozens of doctors for answers, but all we received was uneducated pediatricians and three misdiagnosis. However, the third misdiagnosis led us to All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg. They took a spinal tap and my proper diagnosis of a malignant brain tumor was given (Megalablastoma). From that point on, I underwent 15 months of radiation and chemotherapy . . . Although my physical pain was great, I have always believed that the emotional pain was so much greater for my loved ones around me who had to watch me (their little girl, niece, granddaughter etc.) suffer. The turmoil that my cancer caused for my family was horrific, but it forced my family to come together at a time of hardship and we are all that much stronger because of it."

Andriana's story is remarkable because she has come through this ordeal in an amazing way. She is living evidence that Ride for Kids helps in so many ways:

Raising money for research - since Ride for Kids® started in 1984 our events have raised over $40 Million for Pediatric Brain Tumor research.

Providing assistance to children and their families - over 40 events are hosted by the motorcycle community throught the US every year. At every event, the kid's and their families are the "STARS" of the show.

Hosting an event that gives this children a breif escape from their ordeal and a little bit of fun - every kid who wants to ride gets to ride. The smiles that we see are uplifting for everyone.

And this is why we do it. The research is helping kids like Andriana beat the odds. Here is a photo of Andriana 8 years later at her High School graduation. This amazing young woman is now pursuing her college degree and has a zeal for life: " I always tell people that ask me; "If given the choice would you do it again?" I say "Most definitely" because I would never be part of all the things that I am today and I have so much more compassion because of it all. I have been participating in the Ride for Kids® since 2000, and my first ride is what turned me onto motorcycle. You better be ready because I'll be riding my Harley Davidson soon. I am also a huge advocate for cancer awareness, particpating in many events and public speaking with the American Cancer Society. I journey off the Boggy Creek each year, which is a camp for children with chronic and terminal illnesses, to help as a counselor. My future dream is to share my knowledge and compassion to the world through public and organizational speech. I believe that it is my job to speak for all those who cannot."

YOU GO GIRL!