In less than two years, Kody Churma went from a healthy young man to one who was unable to hold a fishing pole, and couldn’t draw because he wasn’t able to hold onto a pencil.
Kody died from complications related to scleroderma, an autoimmune disease that attacks skin tissue and can damage internal organs.
Before he died in 2018 at age 26, he started Scler-Churma, a nonprofit organization aimed at raising awareness and educating others about the disease.
After three years of annual events and working through the charity approval process, the group is preparing for its fourth annual fundraiser, which will take the form of a July 31 motorcycle ride throughout the Alle-Kiski Valley.
“We normally hold this on Kody’s birthday in November, but we’re moving to Florida, and we’ve had multiple people ask about a motorcycle ride over the years,” said Kody’s mother, Laurie Churma of Washington Township.
The first two fundraisers took place at the Shootin’ Bull Tavern on Route 380, a popular spot for motorcyclists.
“They were so great to Kody and didn’t make feel uncomfortable when his illness starting really taking a roll,” Churma said. “We’re forever grateful that they were so wonderful.”
The fundraisers, including a virtual version during the pandemic in 2020, have brought in about $30,000. Churma said they are working with support groups to verify and identify candidates to whom they can provide items that are easier to use for those suffering with scleroderma.
“Because we’re a small group, we’re starting off with things like glasses, toothbrushes, smaller items that are easier to hold for folks who have this illness,” she said.
The Kickstands Up for Kody ride will leave at 11 a.m. from the Shootin’ Bull, and along the way will make stops at Barefoot Bar & Grill in Leechburg, Cool Water Saloon in Apollo and Woodpeckers Pub & Grub in New Kensington.
Registration begins at 10 a.m., and is $20 for a single rider, or $25 for a rider and passenger.
The Shootin’ Bull is at 508 Route 380 in Washington Township, on the Murrysville border.
For more, or to register online, see SclerChurma.org.
