Michael, also known affectionately by the road name BigPoppa, joined the San Diego HOG chapter in 2018 and participated in his first Rides4ALZ that same year. Eight years later, BigPoppa is now captain of the San Diego HOG Rides4ALZ team and a leader in rallying his community to support Alzheimer’s San Diego’s free programs for people impacted by dementia in San Diego County.

For BigPoppa, Rides4ALZ holds a special place in his heart. “Going through difficult family loss gave me a deep appreciation for organizations and communities that support people through grief, caregiving, and emotional hardship,” says BigPoppa. “That’s one of the reasons events like Rides4ALZ matter to me. It’s more than just a ride — it’s about showing up for families, caregivers, and those affected by this disease while raising awareness and support together as a community.” Grief and emotional hardship are common emotions felt by caregivers caring for a loved one living with dementia. One of the programs at Alzheimer’s San Diego that benefits from Rides4ALZ is the Support Group program, which helps caregivers navigate their emotions in a safe space. Thanks to dedicated and generous people in our community like BigPoppa and our other compassionate participants, all support groups are free to those who need them.

Whether this is your first time going or you’ve been supporting Alzheimer’s San Diego at Rides4ALZ for years, your participation makes a big difference in the lives of thousands of people impacted by dementia right now. Last year, your incredible community raised over $100,000 to help keep Alzheimer’s San Diego’s education classes, respite, social activities, and other dementia-specific programs 100% free. “And honestly,” says BigPoppa, “the energy at these events is powerful — you see community, compassion, laughter, tears, and people showing up for something bigger than themselves.”

This year marks a very special milestone for Alzheimer’s San Diego. It’s Alzheimer’s San Diego’s 10th anniversary supporting San Diego County as a local nonprofit. In honor of a decade of serving San Diego, Rides4ALZ will feature a NEW route of about 100-miles that includes scenic views, fun twists and turns, and an all around beautiful ride through our county’s mountainous landscapes and sweeping valleys. “I think this year has the chance to be really special because it’s not only about fundraising, it’s about honoring memories, supporting caregivers, and showing people affected by Alzheimer’s that they’re not alone.”

For more information on how to sign up for the ride or afterparty, visit the Rides4ALZ website. “There’s just something powerful about a long line of bikes rolling together with purpose. The camaraderie, the stories shared at stops, the laughs, the support — that’s the stuff people remember long after the kickstands go up. San Diego HOG Nation always shows up strong, and that energy is contagious.” BigPoppa will be there, and we hope you will be there too.

Rides4ALZ 2026 will take place Saturday, June 27th, 2026 in Escondido so reserve your ticket or donate to a rider before the event. And don’t forget, you don’t need to be a motorcycle rider to participate! The Rides4ALZ afterparty at Kit Carson Park will be fun for the whole family and includes delicious tacos, live music, and fun raffle prizes! 100% of ALL money raised will STAY in San Diego County to help families impacted by dementia in your community.

By Heidi Emmenegger

Posted on June 11th, 2026