For a brother who’s not going down without a fight

Contributed by Elaiza Enriquez, BSHRM student – Philippine Women’s University, Bataan

Not even a serious illness can stop anyone from fighting. This was the belief of many motorcycle enthusiasts as they showed their full support to their brother and fellow rider in fighting and overcoming his illness.

As early as 7 o’clock in the morning last January 22, 2017 Sunday, several groups of motorcycle owners and riders in and outside Bataan lined up at the Dinalupihan Plaza for a Ride-for- a-Cause for their brother Ryan De Leon who is suffering from leukemia.

Ryan, also known as “Boy Benta”, 26 years old and a motorcycle enthusiast, was diagnosed with leukemia last December 2016 and has been confined at the hospital since then. His love and passion for motorcycles, led him to meet people and gained friends who share the same passion and hobby with him. It is through this hobby, that the Mio Owners Republic group, better known as MOR Bataan organized a Ride-for-a-Cause for Ryan aiming to support him and help him continue his fight.

The event was attended by his fellow riders and different groups coming from Bataan, Olongapo, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija. There were about 15 groups of motorcycle riders including Team Bataan where Ryan is a member. Approximately 150 riders drove and joined the said event. Orange ribbons were tied in their motorcycles which signifies the color of leukemia.

The ride started in Dinalupihan passing by the municipalities of Hermosa, Orani and Samal. A quick stop over at Fil Oil gas station in Abucay for some refreshments and snacks offered by BATMRF (Bataan Motorcycle Riders Federation Inc.). Upon entering the City of Balanga going to the direction of St. Joseph Cathedral, orange flaglets were waved to each rider as a sign of awareness and hope that we are one in this fight.

Moving forward to the municipality of Pilar, Bagac and finally Morong wherein participants from the ride gathered together for a short program. The BERC (Bataan Eagle Rider’s Club) served as the guide and marshal for the whole trip.

In behalf of Team Bataan, Mr. Guillermo Mendoza Jr., Vice President of the group and Ryan’s godfather and Ms. Venus Lorena S. Sibug, the Secretary of the group took the chance to thank everyone who gave their precious time and supported Ryan with his fight. Ryan’s brother also thanked all the teams who supported his brother. His emotional message brought tears to some riders.

The fund raised was given to Ryan’s family to help them support Ryan’s expenses in his treatment. The amount raised may not be that big but it will surely be a big help for Ryan and his family especially now that they are in a hard situation.

For some, motorcycle is just a kind of transportation. But for these riders, it is their way to help and support a friend who was always helping them before.

Now that Ryan is in this condition, he needs strength, courage, love, support and prayers from the people around him. Through this event, they showed Ryan that there are many people who are willing to help him. They are always on his side supporting him no matter what. Since Ryan is not going down without a fight, his fellow riders are waiting for him to be healed and get back to his normal life.

For sure riders will gather once more to celebrate with him and ride as far as they want with big smiles on their faces.

As I was about to send this article a few hours after finalizing, our dear Ryan de Leon passed away yesterday, Tuesday January 24 at 1:30AM. He is now in the hands of our creator.

Our Hopes broke down into tears and pain. Messages of sympathy for his family and letting him rest flooded in Facebook. His friends and relatives are still shocked that he is gone too early. But now, he is in a more peaceful place. No more pain in heaven and we know that he is just here guiding us.

Ryan, you have reached your finish line. You fought a good fight. You did a good ride. Guide your family as well as your friends in their rides and endurance challenges that they are going to join. They will continue your dream for your team mates and bring more pride to your team for you. We love you Ryan. We are forever, grateful that we have met a friend like you. You will surely be missed and will be forever in our hearts. Ride on peace, our dear friend.

(Photos courtesy of Vincent B. Valentos, member, Team Bataan) 

Editor’s Note: Our condolences to the family and friends of Ryan de Leon. May you rest in peace with our Creator.