News
Biking Duo Visits Foundation in Miami
Hap & Diane Eaton, the biking duo from Circleville, OH, have unknowingly created quite a name for themselves since the beginning of their cross-country journey on May 6, 2007. With the goal of traveling 10,000 miles on their tandem bicycle to raise awareness and funds for Alpha-1, the Eatons have lived up to all expectations—and then some.
(At right, Hap Eaton is reflected in Diane Eaton’s sunglasses. A tiny rear-view mirror is attached to Diane’s glasses.)
They have traveled along the northern, western and southern regions and coasts of the United States and recently made a pit-stop in Gainesville, FL where they rented a van and packed up their tandem to visit the Alpha-1 Foundation in Miami. A much unexpected welcome-home party was waiting for the couple as they arrived to the Foundation (by their bike, of course).
This meeting with the Eatons was the first for most staff members, including Alpha-1 Foundation President and CEO John W. Walsh. Hugs and emotions were shared and instant connections were undoubtedly fostered. The scene was unlike that of long-lost family members meeting for the first time.
Over lunch, the Eatons shared stories memorable moments from their (so-far) 8,100 mile journey. Without hesitation the couple agrees that the greatest part of their trip has been the people they’ve met along the way, which of course includes many Alphas. The generosity and hospitality people exuded from all over the country blew the Eatons away. From being invited in for Christmas dinner by a passing cyclist, to the courteous drivers in Los Angeles, CA, the Eatons were pleasantly surprised and grateful for the welcome they received.
When heartfelt appreciation and gratitude was extended to the Eatons for their visit to Miami, they replied without hesitation, “It wasn’t even a second thought.” Their journey is inspired by Diane’s brother-in-law, Dugan, who suffers from Alpha-1. He used to bike along with the Eatons but is now too sick to do so.
Now they are on their way to finishing the last leg of their journey; next stop – somewhere near Georgia and South Carolina. As always, check in with the Eatons by reading their blog, The Eatons are Outbikin’.
(Pictured at right are the Eatons with the Alpha-1 Foundation staff.)
Links:
The Eatons First-giving fundraising page
Previous Foundation articles:
Biking Duo Catches Eye of TX Newspaper
Hap and Diane Eaton Featured in Podcast
Ohio Couple Bikes Cross-country for Alpha-1
