Last Wish Granted: 82-Year-Old’s Dream Harley Ride

Judy Yaeger-Jones, an 82-year-old St. Paul resident diagnosed with a terminal disease and given just six months to live, had an extraordinary last wish. She dreamed of riding on the back of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and thanks to the Dream Foundation and the St. Paul Harley-Davidson dealership, her wish became reality.

Although Yaeger-Jones had always been curious about motorcycles, the idea truly took shape when a nurse from Allina Health Hospice & Palliative Care, who herself rode a motorcycle, proposed the idea. The nurse reached out to the Dream Foundation, an organization that fulfills final dreams for terminally ill adults. On a sunny Saturday morning, Yaeger-Jones embarked on her first-ever motorcycle ride, seated behind a professionally trained instructor from St. Paul Harley-Davidson.

Yaeger-Jones explained that her fascination with motorcycles and the sense of freedom they symbolize motivated her dream. With a fearless spirit, she expressed excitement about the ride and the chance to experience something new. Her dedication to community service, including her work during Women’s History Month and contributions to various projects, has earned her recognition and respect. However, her ride on the Harley-Davidson was a unique and exhilarating experience.

With an orange Harley-Davidson T-shirt and a sense of adventure, Yaeger-Jones savored the ride’s liberating feeling. She even humorously contemplated the idea of purchasing a Harley for herself. Upon her return, Yaeger-Jones described the ride as a taste of freedom and indicated her desire to remain on the bike.

The heartwarming story highlighted the power of fulfilling a cherished wish, even in the face of life’s challenges. Yaeger-Jones’ radiant happiness serves as a reminder to embrace opportunities and take chances, ensuring that life is lived to the fullest.
Re-reported from the article published in TwinCities.com Pioneer Press