Motorcycle ride benefits hit-and-run victims
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TRENTON, Tenn. — One month after a devastating hit-and-run that rocked Gibson County, the community came together to benefit the two people seriously injured in the crash. Eight-year-old Paige Helton and family friend Mike Doss were the victims of a hit-and-run while riding a motorcycle last month. Saturday, more than 100 riders from all over drove their bikes more than 70 miles through Gibson County to show how West Tennessee can come together. “It takes more than motorcycles,” organizer Scott Baldwin said. “It takes people who just want to do for their community, and they’ve definitely showed up.” Hundreds of bikes and riders put their kickstands up for Helton and Doss. “This was something that my father loved,” Doss’ son Wesley Young said. “Every chance he got, he was on his bike.” It was while riding a motorcycle with Paige on July 5 when the pair became the victims of a hit-and-run. “He risked his own life to protect Paige,” Gibson County Sheriff Paul Thomas said. “So really they pulled together for this like they never have for anything else.” Since the accident, a smile hasn’t left Paige’s face. Her leg is healing more quickly than expected. But Mike’s road to recovery is a little longer. He remains hospitalized in Memphis. “To see people we don’t even know come out and support her and support Mike, help us when we really need help, it’s very overwhelming,” Paige’s mother, Margo Helton, said. Their story of bravery and triumph still touches the community. “Everyone could relate to this in one part of their life,” Baldwin said. “That’s the reason why they’re out here.” As the bikes rode into the distance, these friends said they’ll be alongside Paige and Mike throughout their road to recovery. “Paige has a whole other family. Her and Mike both do,” Helton said. “I know now that if she needs anything, they’re just a phone call away.” All money raised during Saturday’s ride will benefit the Helton and Doss families with their medical expenses. The man accused of hitting the pair last month remains jailed in Gibson County.
