Cyclist plans ride to raise money for Parkinson’s

PRESQUE ISLE – Mark Higgins will ride his bicycle, once again, from Presque Isle to Falmouth to promote awareness and raise money for Parkinson’s disease research.

The ride will start at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, in front of Aroostook Bicycle on Chapman Street, Presque Isle.

The plan is to ride Route 1 to Houlton, Route 2 to Bangor, Route 202 to Augusta, Route 201 to Topsham, Route 1 to Bucknam Road and finish at the American Parkinson Disease Association Information & Referral Center at Falmouth Family Health Center.

Higgins has continued his training and plans to ride approximately 70 miles per day, similar to the effort he undertook in 2003.

Born and raised in Presque Isle, Higgins lives with his wife Debra in Skowhegan. He was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease 16 years ago, at the age of 35.

A former master welder and diver for sea scallops, he has been forced to give up his working career because of Parkinson’s disease.

However, he has never given up on life. As with many people who are afflicted with Parkinson’s disease, Higgins’ attitude is positive, reflecting his zest for living life each day to the fullest.

Officials at the APDA said that Parkinson’s disease may be one of the most baffling and complex of neurological disorders. It affects more than 1.5 million people nationally, including more than a half-million people in their early 50s or younger. In Maine, some 7,000 people have Parkinson’s.

Higgins’ ride is intended to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease research. To support his effort, make checks payable to APDA and send to APDA-Bike Ride, 5 Bucknam Road, Suite 1A, Falmouth, ME 04105.

Those who wish are welcome to get out their bicycles and ride along with Higgins, for a portion or even all the way. Contact Mark Higgins at 474-9659 or e-mail mhiggins@gwi.net for details.

A gala finish ceremony will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at 5 Bucknam Road, Falmouth. There will be music, refreshments and a free antique car show.