Published November 21. 2022 10:38AM
by DANA GRUBB Special to the Bethlehem Press
The 12th annual Tucker’s Toy Run, held Nov. 5 by Lehigh Valley Community Benefit, returned to its normal stop with a visit at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Fountain Hill, after two years of only a drive-by due to the pandemic.
According to event organizer Rick Nauman, approximately 1,000 riders delivered well over 5,000 toys to the hospital’s pediatric unit.
The ride begins in Northampton at the Tri-Boro Sportsman Club and arrives at St. Luke’s after being escorted by public safety agencies through the communities along the route.
The annual raffle associated with the event produced one motorcycle winner and 10 $1,000 cash winners. It is the largest fundraiser of the year for Lehigh Valley Community Benefit.
“Everything we do and every penny we get we give back,” said Nauman, who credited the motorcycle community and the many volunteers who assist with organizing Tucker’s Toy Run. The ride is in memory of biker Tucker Stuart, who died in a motorcycle crash in 2011.
Employees from St. Luke's pediatric unit greet motorcyclists who participated in the 2022 Tucker's Toy Run.
Dressed in last year's T-shirt, lead organizer Rick Nauman raises his fist high to celebrate the 12th annual Tucker's Toy Run.
Riders and drivers make a patriotic entrance into the St. Luke's parking lot.
This rider made no bones about his support for Tuckers Toy Run.
Allentown biker Don Klimek has ridden all 12 years.
Wearing his safety goggles, Riley rides with his best friend Jim Shelanick for the second year in a row. More photos on A2.
Pat Kent from Phillipsburg delivers a plush Teddy Bear at the end of his seventh Tucker's Toy Run ride.
Toys #8: St. Luke's employees and volunteers provided snacks and beverages to participants.
Nazareth residents Kevin and Cindy Searles relax after arriving at St. Luke's. On the road they're known as Redd and Stryker. “It's all for the kids and all for the community,” Cindy said.
Even Santa Claus rode, taking a break from Christmas preparations at the North Pole.
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBB Community Benefit volunteers surround Easton resident and pediatric patient Patrick Walworth and his dad James. Walworth holds two gifts including a much desired football.
Ride organizer Rick Nauman says, “This is insane, your generosity is overwhelming as we honor our friend Tucker.” Pediatric care manager Pat Gubich, RN, CPN, remarked, “if only you could see the smiles on the children.”
