YNAD

You Are Not Alone Day

Story & Photos: Missy Elliott Johnson

If I have said it once, I have said it a thousand times, You Are Not Alone Day (YNAD) is personally my most favorite Exiled MC Event. Those of you that have not attended a YNAD have truly missed an opportunity to witness the love and kindness shared throughout an entire community. The 13th Annual YNAD did not disappoint. In fact it turned out to be the most successful year in YNAD’s history.

You Are Not Alone Day is held the first Saturday in October every year and is an entire day dedicated to raising money for families chosen by Exiled MC earlier in the year. Kendall Rae and Jackson Pegram were this year’s YNAD recipients, two beautiful and vibrant children dealing with serious health issues.

The YNAD Poker Run included both motorcycles and several classic cars and trucks. Kickstands were up around noon and spectators cheered on as these cars, trucks and 100 plus motorcycles departed the Lake Gaston Volunteer Fire Department to enjoy a beautiful day of riding to support Kendall and Jackson. During the Poker Run, snacks and t-shirts were sold, a silent auction was available and lunch preparation was underway at the Fire Department. YNAD offers something for EVERYONE!

Lunch was served after the Poker Run and it was then time for the Live Auction. There was a multitude of items donated for auction. Several crocheted blanks, numerous handmade items and lots of gift baskets and bags donated by local businesses were up for auction. Robbie Dunn, Exiled MC President and Justin Steffey, Exiled MC Vice-President were the auctioneers and they did not disappoint. There was lots of laughter, a few tears at times and a huge amount of money raised. As the auction started, I told myself to make mental notes of who donated what item but I soon found myself getting caught up in the moment as well. I laughed, cried and was in awe over the extreme generosity of those that donated and those that placed bids on these items. This community truly understands the importance of taking care of their own and I know Exiled MC appreciates and loves their community.

The last “segment” of this year’s YNAD featured Legendary Lane taking the stage again this year and WOW, they did not disappoint! Everyone that stayed for the show had a great time of singing, dancing, laughing and having a good time. Legendary Lane provided a fantastic show to wrap up a very wonderful day.

We know the world we now live in is sometimes difficult and most often just messed up. What if for just one day, you are able to be a part of something so beautiful, so full of kindness and love that you forget all the bad in the world? This is what YNAD is for me and I know I cannot be the only one that feels this way. Those that have attended YNAD will understand and those that haven’t attended the event are truly missing out.

So, mark you calendars for the first Saturday in October next year, check out “You Are Not Alone Day” on Facebook and come experience this for yourself! I promise you will not be disappointed and you might just leave with your faith in humanity recharged and restored.