Carsten Boesmann, diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD), is on a cross-country motorcycle ride to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson's disease (PD).

There is no cure for this neurodegenerative disease, which affects 1.5 million Americans. Cheryl Majeske, a New Kent County resident who also has YOPD, is working with the Chickahominy Family YMCA to welcome Carsten as he travels through the Richmond area.

To kick off the activities and fundraising, a police escort for Carsten, Cheryl and several other motorcyclists will arrive at the YMCA, 5401 Whiteside Road in Sandston, Virginia, at noon Thursday, June 26, 2008.

Representatives from the Richmond Chapter, American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) and the Chickahominy YMCA will have educational and membership materials available. Individuals may participate in a group PD exercise class or ride along with Carsten as he leaves at 2 p.m. for Washington, D.C. A $20 ride-along fee is required to accompany Carsten any distance on his journey.

Donations for the YMCA open house will be shared with the APDA and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.