On April 11, 2026, southwest Louisiana lived up to its name for one unforgettable day. Under clear skies at Sam Houston Jones State Park, over 150 people came together for the first-ever rideATAXIA Hometown event in Lake Charles. Among them were 16 individuals living with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), all united by a shared mission: raising awareness and funds to find treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
rideATAXIA was founded in 2007 by Kyle Bryant, who continues to play a vital role in the movement today. What started as one cyclist’s determination has grown into a powerful nationwide program. Through FARA (the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance), these events have raised more than $12 million for critical FA research — building a strong and growing pipeline of potential therapies.
Hometown rides like ours are special because members of the FA community itself organize them. As one of the organizers, I can say with full confidence: this event was a huge success. Beyond the joy and connection, we raised a whopping $20,000 — money that will directly support FARA’s vital work.
The 3-mile trail winding through Sam Houston Jones State Park provided the perfect backdrop. Participants walked, rolled, or pedaled their way along the scenic path, surrounded by towering pines, cypress trees, and the beauty of southwest Louisiana. Whether moving on foot, in wheelchairs, or on bikes, everyone crossed the finish line together — each step, roll, and pedal bringing us closer to a cure for Friedreich’s ataxia.
For many of us, Louisiana isn’t just home — it’s a place where a tight-knit FA community has taken root. Having so many of us in one place felt truly special. The laughter, the stories, the quiet understanding that passes between people who truly get it… There aren’t enough words to describe the emotion of that day. It was powerful, uplifting, and deeply moving. A huge thank you to every single person who showed up, donated, volunteered, or spread the word. Your support means the world to the FA community here in southwest Louisiana and far beyond. Together, we’re turning good times into real progress. Here’s to more rides, more connections, and — one day soon — a world without Friedreich’s ataxia.
Written and edited by
Sam Dupre
We were only a rainbow shy of sunshine and rainbows at the first-ever rideATAXIA Lake Charles. Over 150 registrants, including 16 people with FA, gathered on a sunny Saturday at Sam Houston Jones State Park on April 11 to join in the fight against Friedreich’s ataxia. Together, we raised over $20,000 for FARA – double the event’s initial goal of $10,000. Much of the credit for a successful event goes to the four co-hosts: FARA ambassadors Kailey Newcity, Kyle Duhon, Sydni Dupre, and Sam Dupre. As a FARA ambassador from Alabama who has attended many rides, most of which took place in the state of Florida, I found this community to be especially welcoming. It was inspiring to see the way this small, tightly-knit community worked together to ensure every need was met.
The Duhon family and the DeepSouth Cranes gave everyone an incredible taste of Louisiana with a delicious lunch of chicken and sausage pastalaya. Lake Charles Toyota helped keep everyone cool with a truck serving water and iced sodas, as well as cookies (with allergen-free options) and chips provided by the event hosts. The shaded pavilion brought everyone together after the bikers and walkers returned from the circular, mile-long trail. Following lunch, everyone met in front of the lake for a group picture in front of the photo-op backdrop, crafted and donated by Ballons by Lex. Vendors such as Families for Inclusion, the Bryce River Foundation and Train Unique Fitness also set up informational tables near the registration tent.
However, the most memorable part of the day for me was the closing moments. Attendees, FAers, and news reporters gathered around quietly to listen as the ride hosts shared heartfelt messages of gratitude.
There were plenty of smiles shared and tears shed as Kyle, Kailey, and Sam expressed how much the community’s support meant to them. It’s not just financial giving, but the emotional backing and cheerful presence of friends, supporters, and loved ones that truly make an impact and shapes their outlook on living with FA.
The positive environment at rideATAXIA Lake Charles was a powerful reminder of how strong we can be as a unit, even when everyday life makes us feel alone. We’re still able to come together and fight for one another.
Written by
Noah Griffith