Heartwarming Motorcycle Parade in Lexington for Denny
In Lexington, Kentucky, the roar of motorcycle engines filled the air as a community came together to support a beloved local man, Denny Otis, who has been bravely battling severe dementia. With the backdrop of cheering friends and family, the event titled “Ride Your Motorcycles for Denny” turned into a heartfelt tribute celebrating not just his life but the bond of family and friendship.
Tina Portwood, Denny’s younger sister, opened up about their close-knit family. “We’re always together,” she shared, recounting how the Otis family has stuck together through thick and thin, even after the passing of their mother. The bond between Tina and Denny, who is thirteen years her senior, deepened significantly after their mother’s death. “Denny and I became really close, having dinners together almost every night and taking trips to Florida and New York.”
Denny Otis, now 81, is not just a brother to Tina; he’s a treasured figure in the entire family. “He’s a calm and gentle soul,” says Joseph Otis, Denny’s younger brother. “Everyone loves him.” They reminisced about their days serving together in the Vietnam War and how Denny took pride in his various roles, from managing horses at Keeneland to putting up guide signs on highways.
However, the past ten years have brought significant challenges. Denny was diagnosed with severe dementia, a condition that has slowly stolen his memories and personality. Portwood, who juggles the caregiving of both Denny and her own son, who has been in a coma for over a decade, spoke candidly about the “difficult job” it has been. “He can’t take care of himself now,” she says lovingly.
It was wrenching for the family to witness Denny’s struggle. Portwood recounted early moments when Denny began losing his ability to remember simple things. “He kept repeating himself, saying he was at the wrong house, wrong street.” The heartbreaking change in Denny’s health has undoubtedly taken a toll on those who love him, but they remain steadfast. “He’s lost a lot of his personality but is still the good person he always was,” shared Joseph, his eyes glistening with tears.
Recently, the alarming news from doctors revealed that Denny’s time might be limited. In a desperate bid to honor him and create lasting memories, the family quickly organized the motorcycle ride event, drawing dozens of bikers to join them in a show of support.
As the sun rose on the day of the event, bikers flocked to the Harley Davidson shop on Man-O-War in Lexington, their spirits high. With engines roaring and the smell of fuel in the air, the group set off on a meaningful ride toward Portwood’s home, where Denny awaited their arrival.
“That’s one thing he remembers,” Tina shared, reflecting on Denny’s passion for motorcycles. “He always asks me, ‘Do I have a Harley?’ and I tell him, ‘Yeah, but it’s not running right now.’” Denny’s pride and joy, a 1973 Harley, was still in pristine condition, parked prominently as a symbol of his love for riding.
As the procession of motorcycles passed by, Denny could be seen taking it all in. The sight of his friends and family on bikes, revving their engines in his honor, had to be a bittersweet moment for him and everyone there. As the sounds of friendship and camaraderie echoed around them, Tina remembered a heart-rending conversation with her brother. “I told him that he’s pretty bad off. He said ‘I’m ready to go.’”
We hope he knows just how much he’s cherished. “I’m not ready for him to go,” Portwood said, her voice breaking. “He’s my big brother, and I love him to death.” The family continues to rally around Denny, showering him with love while he’s here, ready to support him until he chooses to take his next journey.
Ultimately, the “Ride Your Motorcycles for Denny” event was more than just a motorcycle parade; it was a poignant reminder of love, support, and the importance of community during life’s toughest challenges. Even in the face of hardship, those gathered proved that their hearts are stronger together.
Denny’s journey may be fraught with difficulty, but the spirit displayed that day in Lexington will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on everyone who participated, creating memories to cherish forever.
