Fall / Winter 2024 | Community 23
Staying Cool for a Cure on “ Shake and Freeze Day ”
If you find yourself passing through Pennsylvania on the shortest day of the year , don ’ t be surprised if you spot a lively group braving the cold in festive shorts . It ’ s all part of “ Shake and Freeze Day ,” a tradition led by Jeanne Quinn ( front row , third from the right ), 63 , of Warrington , Pennsylvania , to honor members of her family who lived with Parkinson ’ s . Since 2018 , this fundraiser has raised over $ 166,000 , showing their commitment to a cure endures even on the coldest days .
Drawing for a Difference With Team Cul de Sac
Chris Sparks , 54 , of Asheville , North Carolina , founded Team Cul de Sac to honor his friend Richard Thompson , creator of the Cul de Sac comic strip , who lived with Parkinson ’ s . Each year , artists from across the country contribute unique renditions of Thompson ’ s beloved characters for a one-of-a-kind fundraising book . The team also hosts an annual “ Drink and Draw ” event at HeroesCon , a comic book convention in Charlotte , North Carolina , where creativity comes to life . Since 2010 , this powerful combination of art and heart has raised over $ 270,000 .
Phil Comar ’ s Hands-Free Mission
Phil Comar , 75 , of Adrian , Michigan , doesn ’ t just ride motorcycles — he redefines what ’ s possible on two wheels . Since 2010 , Phil has been riding and raising money mile after mile , often without using his hands , in honor of his father , who lived with Parkinson ’ s . In 2020 , he set the World Record for the longest non-stop , no-handed motorcycle ride , cruising an astounding 680 miles without touching the handlebars . With over $ 120,000 raised so far , his grip on the mission to find a cure remains firm , even with his hands off his bike .