The 4th annual Benefit Bike Ride for Desiree’ Turman will be held Oct. 13, beginning in downtown Okmulgee.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. at 6th and Morton, in front of Tavern 56. The ride begins at 10 a.m., according to Vickie Brasiola, who is coordinating the event.

Registration is $25 per bike with $10 for additional rider.

There will be three stops with a prize drawing at each one.

All proceeds will go to help Turman with medical supplies, equipment, therapy, and hopefully a vehicle equipped to help her be more independent.

Desiree Smith (Turman), now age 23, was involved in a horrible car accident on Nov. 1, 2014, in Marion, Ark. She was three months pregnant and actually on her way to pick up cookies for her reveal shower later that day.

As a result of the accident, she is now paralyzed from the chest down with limited fine motor skills in her hands. Desiree spent the next 3 1/2 months at Regional One in Memphis trying to regain mobility while protecting her unborn baby girl, Tessa, who was born on February 11 at just over 3 lbs. Desiree also has a son Drayden.

She continues to receive therapy several times a week at home and has the normal struggles of a mom of a preemie baby and a rowdy 3-year-old boy, except she does it from a wheelchair. She needs a standing glider that Medicaid does not pay for. The standing glider will help her with stretching her legs and arms, hip rotation, exercise, upper body strength, circulation, pressure sores, and increase her overall emotional health as well.

“She has been incredibly strong and handled a lot for a 23 year old mom of two,” Brasiola said. “Any donation that you can offer is truly a blessing and greatly appreciated. Please help Desiree achieve her goal to walk again and be a part of a wonderful life changing miracle!”

All proceeds from the ride will help with supplies, therapy and go towards getting a vehicle to help Desiree’ be more independent. For more information, contact Vickie Brasiola at 918-304-4079.