Local News

Local off-roaders unite for Grady’s Decision benefit

Allegheny Off-Road has organized a benefit ride on Saturday with all proceeds going to Grady's Decision.

Grady's Decision, a 501c3 non-profit organization, was created to help families experiencing premature births as well as families with children needing specialized medical attention. Emotional, spiritual and financial help is available to families who reside in northwestern Pennsylvania, primarily serving the counties of Warren, McKean, Potter, Cameron, Elk, Clearfield, Jefferson, Forest, Clarion, Venango, Mercer, Crawford and Erie.

Nearly 5,000 families have been helped in honor of Grady Smith who was born more than three months premature. Parents Ryan and Katrina Smith of Erie dealt with the loss of their child while also caring for Grady's twin, Gianna. They came up with a way to direct the love and support they had received toward a cause that would memorialize the life of their son.

"My son lived for 52 hours but I want his 52 hours on earth to have some sort of eternal impact," said Ryan.

For local couple, Morgan and Spencer Watson, this is especially meaningful since their son spent time in the NICU. "After experiencing firsthand what Grady's Decision does for NICU families, we wanted to find a way to give back and help other families going through a similar experience. That's really where the idea for this benefit ride came from," the Watsons said.

The Watsons are both administrators of Allegheny Off-Road, which is a local off-road group made up of people who enjoy off-roading with Jeeps, trucks and other legal off-road vehicles. The group gives people with similar interests an opportunity to get together, enjoy the outdoors, attend rides and events, and support our local community.

"This is the first year Allegheny Off-Road has organized a benefit specifically for Grady's Decision, and we're hoping to make it a meaningful event and raise as much as we can for their organization," said Morgan Watson. "We're really excited about bringing the off-road community together for a cause that is very personal to us. Our hope is that the event will not only raise money, but also bring more awareness to Grady's Decision and the support they provide to families with babies in the NICU."

The event will begin and end at Midtown Motors on Saturday with registration beginning at 9 a.m. and the ride starting at 10 a.m. The cost is $20 cash, which includes the ride and raffles. Food vendors will be available including Bucket Brigade Pizza and Three Hounds Creamery.