Bikers come together to help one of their own

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June 28, 2008

By Ben Lockridge / staff writer The Meridian Star Sat Jun 28, 2008, 11:15 PM CDT

Don Agent was an avid biker who in May had to give up riding due to a blood clot in his spinal cord.

The response to this condition: his friends came to his aid to host a fund-raiser at Chunky River Harley Davidson.

Coordinator and friend of Agent, Sherry Temple, said this was just something she had to do for him.

"I grew up with Don. He graduated with my brother," Temple said. "I mean, we're out riding motorcycles one day, and he's paralyzed the next. I can't imagine what that's like; so if there is anything we can do to help out with medical expenses, then that's what we're going to do."

Don Agent said that he was shocked at the outpouring of love and support.

"I was overwhelmed when we pulled into the parking lot. There are just so many people here, so words really can't describe what I feel about this. I knew it was coming, but I had no idea it would be this big," Agent said.

Don said that this event that has happened in his life taught him to never take anything for granted, and to make every day count.

In addition to the fund-raising efforts, there were plenty of food vendors, a band, face painting for the kids, and even a combat simulator.

Around 12:30 p.m. about 300 bikers rolled into the parking lot representing the Dixie Thunder Run, which is a group of soldiers who ride all over to support other troops and their families that are in need.

President of Dixie Thunder Tony Shackleford said that the event is three years old now.

"It came together when I was still deployed in Iraq, and we just got a bunch of guys together and ride, but then it grew," Tony said. "We started selling our t-shirts, our artwork, our caps, and all of our proceeds go to the emergency family relief fund. That fund is for the deployed soldiers overseas, and their families that are left behind. If they get into any problems they can apply for those funds to help them out."

The Dixie Thunder riders leave this morning to go to Biloxi.

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